Caged Plants

At this time of year, gardening is at the bottom of my to-do-list.   It is cold outside.  Other than shedding leaves, the plants are not doing anything visible that would inspire me to go work outside.  The truth is the plants are alive.  Just like any other form of life plants, even when they are not actively growing, are physiologically active.  If the needs of these living forms are neglected they will show it but usually, it will be too late.  The damage will already have been done.

Water. The one thing that I need to remind myself is to water my potted plants on a regular basis.  The roots of the plants are limited within the soil in the pot and when that soil is dry they have no other source.  Plants grown in the ground can grow their roots further just to reach the source of moisture but plants in pots are like animals in cages.  Everything they need has to be provided.   Water also helps the plants withstand freezing temperatures.

Shelter.  Plants that are sensitive to freezing temperatures need protection during the winter months.  Plants in pots are easier to move around than their in-ground counterparts.  Move them closer to the buildings or position them in such a way that they will get exposed to the southern sun.  The days are very short, it is important to allow the plants to get as much sunlight as possible.

Stroll in your garden...it's good for you and your plants.