Plant Care for Winter in Tampa Bay

How to Care for Your Plants in Winter — Tampa Bay Style

Even though we’re lucky to enjoy mild winters here in the Tampa Bay area, our plants still notice the seasonal change. Cooler temperatures, shorter days, and the occasional cold snap can all affect your landscape’s health. A little extra care during the winter months can keep your yard looking vibrant and ready to thrive come spring.

Here’s how to protect and care for your Florida plants this winter:

1. Watch the Weather

Florida winters can be unpredictable — sunny and 75° one day, chilly and windy the next. Keep an eye on forecasts for sudden drops below 40°F. When cold nights are coming, cover tender plants with frost cloths, old sheets, or lightweight blankets (just remember to remove them during the day so plants can breathe and soak up the sun).

2. Adjust Your Watering Schedule

With cooler temperatures and less intense sun, plants don’t need as much water. Overwatering can actually cause root rot during the winter. Water deeply but less often — early in the morning is best. If you have an irrigation system, adjust the timer to run fewer days per week.

3. Hold Off on Fertilizing

Winter is a rest period for most plants. Save the fertilizer for spring when growth picks back up. Feeding plants too early can cause tender new growth that’s more vulnerable to cold damage.

4. Prune Carefully

Resist the urge to do heavy pruning in the winter. Trim only dead or damaged branches, but wait until late February or March for major shaping. Cutting too much during the cooler months can stress your plants.

5. Choose Cold-Tolerant Plants

If you’re refreshing your landscape this season, consider hardy options that can handle a Florida “cold front.” Some great choices for the Tampa Bay area include:

• Pentas

• Lantana

• Crotons

• Firebush

• Bottlebrush

• Blue Daze

These varieties add color and texture while standing up to mild winter temps.

6. Keep Mulch Fresh

A 2–3 inch layer of mulch around your plants helps insulate the soil, keeping roots warmer and moisture levels steady. Mulch also gives your landscape a clean, finished look all season long.

Final Tip:

Winter is the perfect time to plan your next landscape upgrade or maintenance routine — before the spring rush hits. Whether you need lawn maintenance, irrigation adjustments, or a fresh plant installation, Florida Cutz Landscaping can help your yard stay healthy year-round.

Call us today at 727-259-3460 or visit www.FloridaCutz.com to schedule your winter landscaping service.