Winter in Pennsylvania can turn a beautiful landscape into a stress test overnight. Heavy snow, biting ice, and fluctuating temperatures all take a toll on plants, hardscaping, and soil structure. Thoughtful winter landscape protection helps preserve the beauty and health of your outdoor spaces, so they’re ready to thrive again in spring.
At Greenstone Gardens, a family-owned landscaping company rooted in Newtown Square, PA for over 44 years, we help homeowners and commercial property managers protect their landscapes through every season.
Safeguard Plants from Cold and Snow Load
Winter damage often starts at the plant level. Snow may look soft, but its weight can snap branches and flatten shrubs.
- Wrap vulnerable plants: Burlap wraps protect evergreens, young trees, and delicate shrubs from windburn and heavy snow accumulation.
- Tie branches gently: Upright evergreens benefit from loose twine to prevent branches from splaying under snow.
- Mulch for insulation: A thick mulch layer helps regulate soil temperature and protect roots from freeze-thaw cycles.
According to industry experts, proactive winter plant care significantly reduces long-term damage caused by ice and snow .
Choose Ice Melt Carefully
Ice melt products are essential for safety, but they can be harmful to landscapes if used improperly.
- Avoid products with high salt content near lawns, trees, and planting beds.
- Use calcium magnesium acetate or plant-safe alternatives near sensitive areas.
- Rinse nearby soil and hardscape surfaces during thaws to reduce salt buildup.
If you’re unsure which products are safest, our team addresses common seasonal concerns in our landscaping FAQs, helping clients make informed decisions year-round.
Plan Smart Snow Plow Zones
Snow removal can unintentionally damage your landscape if plow zones aren’t planned ahead of time.
- Designate specific areas for snow piles — away from shrubs, low stone walls, and drainage inlets.
- Mark curbs, garden edges, and hardscape features with stakes before the first snowfall.
- Be mindful of repeated piling, which can compact soil and suffocate turf.
This is especially important for commercial properties, where consistent snow removal is essential but must be balanced with long-term landscape health.
Protect Hardscaping and Drainage Systems
Winter moisture can exploit weaknesses in patios, walkways, and retaining walls.
- Ensure proper drainage so melting snow doesn’t refreeze and cause cracking.
- Inspect hardscaping joints and edges before winter to prevent water infiltration.
- Keep drains clear of leaves and debris to reduce ice buildup.
Well-designed drainage and hardscape solutions are a cornerstone of four-season landscape durability.
A Trusted Four-Season Partner
Winter landscape protection isn’t just about surviving the cold — it’s about protecting your investment. With decades of experience in hardscaping, landscape design, drainage, and outdoor living spaces, Greenstone Gardens supports residential and commercial clients across Delaware County and surrounding Pennsylvania communities all year long.
When spring arrives, landscapes that were protected through winter bounce back faster, healthier, and more vibrant.
Prepare Your Landscape for Winter Today
Whether you need help safeguarding plants, protecting hardscaping, or planning smarter snow management, our team is here to help. Contact Greenstone Gardens today to schedule a winter landscape consultation and keep your outdoor spaces protected all season long. Get in touch with us today!