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How can I start a garden during the cold months?
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Start by preparing your garden space. Choose a spot that gets plenty of sunlight and has good access to water. Clear away any weeds or debris from the area, then amend the soil to improve its fertility and drainage. 2 Plant cold-tolerant vegetables or flowers that will grow despite the cold temperatures. Consider varieties such as kale, collard greens, turnips, Brussels sprouts, peas, Swiss chard, and lettuce. Before you plant, cover the area with a thick layer of mulch to provide extra insulation and help retain moisture.3 Make sure to properly water your garden. Since temperatures can be more extreme in the winter months, it’s important to water your plants more frequently to help them establish roots. Make sure to water deeply and evenly, but avoid overwatering.4 Include a few windbreaks around your garden to protect young plants from high winds. A row of shrubs or a fence can also serve as an effective barrier against cold temperatures, while high raised beds can help capture warmth from the sun.5 If temperatures drop excessively, consider adding some frost protection. Use fabric or plastic sheets to create a barrier between plants and cold air or loosely pile leaves or straw around plants for insulation. This will help some crops maintain their vigor during cold weather.