5 Strategies to Protect Your Landscaping From Winter Pests and Wildlife  

When winter hits, it’s not just the cold weather you need to worry about. Pests and wildlife can wreak havoc on your carefully maintained landscaping, leaving behind damage that might take months (or even years) to undo. Whether it’s burrowing critters, nesting insects, or other animals seeking refuge from the chill, your property may become their winter haven if you’re not proactive.

At Cutting Edge Landscaping, we’ve spent the last 20 years helping home and business owners keep their landscapes in good condition, no matter the season. In this post, we’ll outline five of our top strategies to protect your landscaping during winter so you can enjoy a pristine yard come springtime.

Understanding the Threat

Before jumping into preventative measures, it’s important to understand what you’re up against. Winter has its fair share of stealthy visitors, including:

• Grubs – These soil dwellers feed on grass roots, causing large patches of lawn damage. Plus, they attract other pests like moles and skunks.
• Deer – Searching for food, deer often feed on bark, shrubs, and exposed plants, leading to damage.
• Rabbits – These critters can gnaw on your shrubs and tree bark, especially when food sources are scarce.
• Voles – These small rodents leave telltale trails around your yard as they chew roots, bark, and bulbs.
• Ticks and Fleas – Hiding in leaf piles and long grass, these pests can stick around all winter, especially in milder climates.

Key signs of winter damage include chewed bark, uprooted plants, and trails in the snow. Identifying these issues early is critical for taking action before they escalate.

Strategy 1: Barrier Protection

Physical barriers are one of the most effective ways to keep pests and wildlife away from your landscaping. With the right materials, you can insulate your property while preventing unwanted visitors.

Here’s what you can do:

• Install Fencing: Use wire mesh or sturdy deer fences around your yard or vulnerable plants like shrubs. Make sure fencing extends a few inches underground to deter digging animals like rabbits.
• Tree Wraps and Guards: Wrap young trees with tree guards to protect their bark from gnawing critters.
• Netting Over Garden Beds: Place heavy-duty netting over flower or vegetable beds to prevent animals from feeding on plants.

Barriers not only protect landscaping but also set clear boundaries for visiting wildlife.

Strategy 2: Garden Hygiene

A clean garden is less inviting to pests and wildlife. Many creatures are drawn to overgrown areas or debris where they can hide out for the winter.  

Here’s how to maintain proper garden hygiene:

• Rake and Remove Leaves – Piles of leaves make the perfect nesting spots for insects like spiders and fleas.
• Trim Overgrown Plants and Shrubs – Keep vegetation neat and away from your home to deter rodents and deer.
• Clear Mulch and Debris – Mulch can provide warm cover for pests like grubs and voles.
• Store Firewood Away – Keep piles of wood at least 20 feet from your home to avoid inviting insects and rodents.

By reducing hiding places, you’ll make your yard far less appealing to intruders.

Strategy 3: Natural Deterrents

Not all pest control solutions require chemicals or harsh methods. Use nature’s own tools to safely discourage pests and wildlife from venturing into your landscaping.  

Here are some options:

• Plant Pest-Repelling Vegetation – Certain plants, like lavender, marigolds, and garlic, repel pests due to their strong scents.
• Homemade Sprays – Create sprays made from water, vinegar, or garlic to keep deer and rabbits away from shrubs and trees.
• Essential Oils – Peppermint and citronella oil work wonders in repelling rodents and ticks when strategically placed around your yard.

Pair natural deterrents with the other strategies for the best results.

Strategy 4: Professional Services

Sometimes, you need an expert’s touch to safeguard your yard against determined pests and wildlife. Professional pest control and landscaping services can take your defenses to the next level.

What professionals can offer:

• Pest Inspections: A licensed pest control team can identify hidden threats like burrowing insects or rodents.
• Targeted Treatments: Safe treatments tailored to your property’s needs ensure effective results without damaging landscaping.
• Preventative Landscaping: Experts like Cutting Edge Landscaping design properties with measures to reduce pest appeal, from hardscaping features to shrub placement.

Hiring professionals relieves the stress of pest control while ensuring a thorough job.

Strategy 5: Winter Landscaping Techniques

Certain maintenance practices during winter can help mitigate pest problems and protect your yard.

Some winter landscaping techniques to consider:

• Trim Low Branches – Make it harder for pests and deer to access tasty tree bark.
• Mulch Moderately – Use some mulch for root protection, but not too much to avoid attracting pests.
• Avoid Overwatering – Excess moisture can attract grubs and other underground pests.

By tailoring your landscaping to winter conditions, you can prevent and minimize seasonal damage.

Protect Your Yard Against Winter’s Wild Guests

Winter pests and wildlife can be more destructive than they seem, making prevention vital to keeping your landscaping safe. By implementing these five strategies—barrier protection, garden hygiene, natural deterrents, professional help, and winter-specific landscaping—you’ll enjoy a healthier, pest-free yard by spring.  

Don’t wait for damage to spiral out of control. Take action now to secure your home and yard against winter invaders. If you’re unsure where to start, Cutting Edge Landscaping is here to help! Our experts provide year-round care to ensure your landscaping stays beautiful and protected—whatever the season. Contact us today – your yard deserves the best care, and we’re here to deliver.