The Arkansas Garden in January 2023

Winter is in full swing, Jack Frost visited us last month with that holiday freeze we all experienced, dropping the temperature down to single digits, and including a negative-degree windchill. This likely damaged many of our plants around the state.

Should I prune my damaged plants?

I recommend avoiding pruning until we are able to see how much damage the freeze actually caused when we get our new growth in the spring.

Until then, let’s start planning our gardens, ordering seeds, and turn to our indoor plants for some lovely winter greenery!

Planting Guide

This is general information for the entire state of Arkansas on what to plant in your garden right now. For specific questions about planting in your area, please reach out to your local county agent.

Vegetable Garden

• Strawberries
• Spinach
• English peas
• Salad greens (protected)

Flower Garden

• Poppies
• Calendula

Garden Chores

• Monitor rainfall; water as needed
• Fertilize winter annuals periodically on a warm winter day
• Cover winter vegetables in extreme temperatures to keep from freezing
• Do not touch frozen plants until they thaw
• Gently brush heavy snow off plants to keep them from being weighed down
• Ignore burnt leaves and pruning until spring
• Start planning spring garden; order seeds

Pro-Tip: Winter Houseplant Care

• Check houseplants for pests
• Cut back on watering
• Cut back on fertilizer
• Clean/dust the foliage
• Use grow-lights if needed
• Consider adding humidity to your home
• Try to avoid letting your plants get too cold

Check out our houseplant resources for more tips!