The most important winter landscape tasks in Central Virginia are checking moisture on new plantings, refreshing mulch to insulate roots, monitoring broadleaf evergreens for winter burn, leaving perennials standing for wildlife, noting drainage problems for spring fixes, and protecting marginally hardy specimens.
Why Winter Care Matters in USDA Zone 7
Richmond and the surrounding Central Virginia counties sit in USDA Hardiness Zone 7a/7b, which means our winters are mild compared to the Northeast but still cold enough to stress plants — especially anything installed in the last twelve months. The freeze-thaw cycles, sudden warm snaps, and dry winter winds that define a Virginia winter can be tougher on a young landscape than a steady, snowy New England winter.
The good news: most of what makes the difference between a landscape that bounces back in spring and one that limps through April is straightforward. Here are six winter-wise tips from JRN's horticultural team.
1. Check On Recently Installed Plantings
New trees and shrubs, especially those planted in fall, benefit from consistent soil moisture going into winter. If the ground is not frozen and we are in a dry stretch, a deep watering can make a meaningful difference in root health. Aim for slow, deep soaks rather than light, frequent watering.
2. Refresh Mulch Where Needed
A two-to-three-inch layer of mulch helps insulate roots, moderate soil temperature swings, and protect fresh installations through the winter. This is especially important for young trees and ornamentals. Keep mulch pulled back several inches from the trunk — never piled against it.
3. Monitor Evergreen Health
Broadleaf evergreens like hollies (Ilex), boxwoods (Buxus), and Southern magnolias (Magnolia grandiflora) can experience winter burn from cold, dry winds. Keeping the soil moist and properly mulched helps reduce stress on these plants as they harden off for the season.
4. Leave Perennials Standing When Possible
Winter structure adds beauty to the landscape, and seed heads and stems support beneficial wildlife — songbirds, native bees, and overwintering insects all use last year's growth. We typically encourage clients to allow perennials to overwinter naturally unless a plant is diseased.
5. Take Note of Drainage Issues
Winter rains highlight low spots and areas that hold water longer than they should. If you notice pooling, soggy lawns, or a foundation that stays wet, winter is a great time to start the conversation about grading or drainage solutions for spring construction schedules.
6. Protect Investment Plants
High-value or marginally hardy specimens — flowering camellias, certain Japanese maples, tender hydrangeas — benefit from windbreaks, anti-desiccant sprays, or burlap wraps in exposed locations. If you have a centerpiece plant you cannot stand to lose, a little extra winter protection is worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I water my plants in winter in Virginia?
Yes, when the ground is not frozen and there has been a dry stretch, deep watering helps newly installed trees and shrubs in Central Virginia. Roots continue to grow whenever soil temperatures are above about 40°F, which happens often in Zone 7 winters.
What plants need winter protection in Richmond, VA?
Broadleaf evergreens like hollies, boxwoods, and Southern magnolias are most at risk for winter burn in the Richmond area. Marginally hardy specimens like camellias, Japanese maples, and gardenias may also benefit from windbreaks or anti-desiccant sprays in exposed locations.
When should I cut back perennials in Central Virginia?
Most perennials in Central Virginia are best cut back in late winter or early spring, just before new growth emerges. Leaving stems and seed heads through winter provides habitat for beneficial wildlife and adds visual interest to dormant gardens.
Plan Your Next Project With James River Nurseries
If your landscape needs a closer look — winter watering, drainage corrections, or a plan for spring — JRN's horticultural team is here to help. Visit jamesrivernurseries.com/contact to schedule a site visit.
