Silver Mound (Artemisia schmidtiana ‘Silver Mound’) is a popular perennial known for its distinctive silvery, finely textured foliage. Understanding its specific winter needs is important for ensuring its health and vibrant return in subsequent growing seasons. Proper winter preparation helps protect the plant from harsh conditions, supporting its natural cycle.
Understanding Silver Mound’s Winter Behavior
As winter approaches, Silver Mound undergoes a natural transformation into dormancy. Its silvery foliage typically dies back to the ground, as it is deciduous in many regions. The vibrant silver gives way to a brown mass above the soil, a natural part of its annual life cycle where energy redirects to the root system for survival.
During dormancy, the plant’s essential life functions continue below the soil, with roots remaining alive for spring revival. Hardy in USDA Zones 3 through 7, Silver Mound withstands a range of winter temperatures when properly managed. Its hardiness allows it to endure freezing, provided its root crown is protected. Recognizing this normal dormant phase helps gardeners anticipate its winter appearance and avoid unnecessary concern.
Preparing Silver Mound for Winter
Autumn preparation is beneficial for Silver Mound’s successful overwintering. Pruning spent or dead foliage is one such measure. Trimming to three to four inches above the soil tidies the garden and removes potential hiding spots for pests or diseases over winter, allowing the plant to focus energy on root development and storage.
Adequate late fall watering is another important step, particularly for new plantings. Thoroughly moist soil before freezing prevents root desiccation during dry winter periods. A deep watering, especially if autumn has been unusually dry, provides reserves and is crucial for newer plantings without extensive root systems.
Apply a two-to-four-inch layer of organic mulch around the plant’s base for insulation. This mulch stabilizes soil temperatures, preventing damaging fluctuations. It also acts as a barrier against frost heave, which can push the root crown out of the ground and expose it to cold air and drying winds.
Protecting Silver Mound During Winter
Beyond autumn preparation, winter considerations also contribute to Silver Mound’s well-being. Natural snow cover provides excellent insulation for dormant plants, shielding them from extreme cold and drying winds. This layer maintains consistent soil temperature, benefiting underground structures.
However, heavy or wet snow and ice can pose a risk to any remaining plant structure. If skeletal forms remain, gently brush off heavy snow to prevent stem breakage or crown compression. This is only necessary if snow is unusually dense and threatens severe compaction.
Good drainage remains important throughout winter to prevent water pooling around the crown, which can lead to rot during thaw and refreeze. Avoid walking on or disturbing dormant areas to prevent soil compaction. Compacted soil restricts air and water movement to roots, potentially harming the dormant crown, so mindfulness during winter activities maintains soil integrity and protects the plant’s hidden energy reserves.
Post-Winter Care and Spring Revival
As winter recedes and spring temperatures emerge, prepare Silver Mound for its annual reawakening. Spring cleanup involves removing dead or matted foliage from the previous season. Gently rake away debris or snip old growth to allow sunlight and air to reach new shoots effectively.
New growth emerges from the plant’s base as the soil warms. Once fresh shoots are visible and established, light shaping can be performed. Selectively trim straggly or uneven growth to encourage a compact, mounded form, but allow new growth to develop before significant pruning.
Resume regular watering as the plant breaks dormancy, especially if spring rainfall is sparse. Consistent moisture supports vigorous new foliage development and overall recovery from dormancy.
Patience is needed in early spring, as Silver Mound can be slow to show signs of life. Its emergence depends on consistent soil warming, potentially taking several weeks before silvery foliage reappears.