Preparing your home and garden is important to combat the drop in winter temperatures. An important outdoor task is safely moving items that are unlikely to withstand frost, snow, and other adverse weather conditions. Here are six items to prioritize…
1. Terracotta pots
While you need to protect your plants from severe frosts for them to thrive, terracotta pots also need a little care. Although real terracotta pots and certain types of ceramics are particularly suitable for the heat and humidity of the summer months, they are not quite as resilient in the cold. “Terracotta in particular is porous and will crack as water penetrates, freezes and expands,” explains Sarah Day, storage expert at Pay less for storage. Place your pots in a frost-free location and make sure they are not in contact with the ground.
2. Electric garden tools
“Any equipment that is electric or has an engine, such as lawnmowers or trimmers, should be drained of fuel to prevent condensation in the tank, which can damage the engine,” says Sarah. Storing these expensive garden tools in a shed or garage should be enough. Remember to check them regularly during the winter months.
3. Metal tools
High-quality metal garden tools are also not cheap, so you should not leave them outside over the winter as this can lead to rusting. “If you want your shovels and secateurs to last a long time, clean and oil them carefully, then wrap them in an old burlap sack or duster and store them in a dry place,” suggests Sarah.
4. Wooden furniture
Extend the life of your garden furniture sets with protective covers. While metal, rattan and rope furniture generally withstand winter conditions, wooden sets should ideally be stored in a dry location such as a shed or garage.
“For pieces that are more exposed to winter weather, such as wooden or fabric furniture, it is worth investing in high-quality covers,” says Nazia Irfan, style consultant at Kettler. Covers must be breathable to prevent condensation, which can cause mold to form on furniture. Make sure covers fit snugly but allow some air circulation, and raise furniture slightly off the ground to avoid direct contact with snow or accumulated water.
“It is also recommended to apply a good quality wood preservative or waterproof wood wax as it creates a further protective barrier against the elements,” says Sam Stevens from Pergolux UK.
5. Hoses
As soon as the temperature drops below freezing, any remaining water in the hose freezes, which can result in a cracked and damaged hose if care is not taken. Disconnect the hose, drain it, and store it safely in a waterproof container or shed.
6. Seeds and green onions
Cold and damp conditions can destroy seeds and bulbs before they can even be planted. “If they get too wet they can rot, and if they freeze they probably won’t survive planting in the spring,” says Sarah. “Store them in a cool but dry place in your home, such as an old shoebox lined with newspaper.”
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Ellis Cochrane is a freelance writer for House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, covering everything from expert tips and tricks to gardening advice, product round-ups and the latest properties to hit the market. Ellis has been writing about homes, interiors and gardens for four years and her work has also been published by Ideal Home, Prima and Elle Japan. Over the years, Ellis has also written for a number of publications including Cosmopolitan, Tyla, Daily Express, Expert Reviews UK, Stylist and IndyBest, covering beauty and style, television and films, books and celebrity news. Ellis studied at the University of Strathclyde, where she completed a joint BA Hons degree in English and Politics. Follow Ellis on Instagram at @ellistuesday.