Among the fruit bushes commonly cultivated in our gardens, some species, such as black and colorful currants, chokeberry or Kamchatka berry, are characterized by high frost resistance.On the other hand, other shrubs, such as raspberries, blackberries and grapevines, are more sensitive to low temperatures in winter.In order for these species to survive without damage until spring, they require careful protection.
Blackberry shoots freeze in a dozen or so degrees of frost. The best form of wintering shrubs is to take the entire aboveground part from the scaffolding and lay it flat on the ground. If shrubs grow loose without supports, we also press them gently to the ground and cover them with available materials, such as straw, potato haulm or fleece.Sometimes the very location of the shoots makes them overwinter under the snow without harm .
Raspberry root system located shallowly below the surface of the soil is prone to freezing, therefore it is beneficial to mulch the substrate. In the rows of raspberries (especially those that have just been planted), lay a 10 cm layer of sawdust or tree bark.These materials will provide an insulating layer against frost, and at the same time will not interfere with the emergence of young shoots in spring.
Grapevines grown in gardens are most often stretched on pergolas, trellises and other scaffoldings. For this reason, it is difficult to protect the entire shrub. The vines should always be planted in a sunny place, but at the same time sheltered from frosty winds. It is a good idea to put a creeper on the wall of the building, where it is always a bit warmer.
For planting, it is worth choosing only proven, not very sensitive to frost varieties. In the case of young shrubs, during the first years, we additionally cover the root collar with soil, creating a small mound.
Late autumn and winter are the perfect time to fertilize the orchard part of the garden with phosphorus and potassium.Spread the fertilizers over the entire surface.If the soil is too acidic, additionally use calcium fertilizers, such as carbonate lime or chalk.
These one of the smallest shrubs withstand frost without damage, provided that there is snow cover.Snow acts as an insulator, so in winter you can scoop some snow onto the beds if it is blown by the wind.Or, before the snow falls, you can spread a white fleece over the plants to cover the strawberries and additionally, it will accelerate fruiting in the coming season.