Abilene & West Texas
Protect Plants from Cold
- Cover tender plants when freezing temperatures are forecast
- Water plants before a freeze to help protect roots
- Add 2–3 inches of mulch around plants for insulation
- Move container plants to protected areas (south side, garage, or porch)
- Avoid pruning most plants now—wait until late winter
What You Can Plant
- Plant trees, shrubs, and bare-root roses while dormant
- Add winter color with pansies, snapdragons, and ornamental kale/cabbage
- Continue planting cool-season crops such as lettuce, spinach, mustard greens, and radishes
- Plant herbs including cilantro, parsley, and dill
Sources:
Vegetable Garden Tasks
- Harvest cool-season crops regularly
- Use row covers or frost cloth during freezes
- Keep soil slightly moist (do not overwater)
- Remove spent plants to help prevent disease
Soil and Lawn Care
- Add compost or organic matter to garden beds
- Use fallen leaves as mulch or add them to compost
- Continue mowing if grass is still growing
- Avoid fertilizing warm-season grasses at this time
Maintenance and Cleanup
- Remove dead or diseased plant material
- Control winter weeds before they go to seed
- Lightly prune only damaged or diseased branches
- Clean and sharpen garden tools
Pests and Disease Awareness
- Check plants for overwintering insects and eggs
- Watch for fungal issues during cool, wet weather
- Inspect plants before bringing them indoors
Plan for Spring
- Plan your spring garden layout
- Order seeds early
- Review notes from this year’s garden
- Identify plants that performed well in West Texas conditions
Quick Summary
- Protect plants from freezes
- Plant trees, shrubs, and cool-season crops
- Mulch and improve soil
- Harvest winter vegetables
- Clean up and prepare for spring