WINTERIZING YOUR SHRUBSMost shrubs are hardy enough to withstand the cold of winter, but they can be damaged. A few simple steps taken to winterize them can help protect them and keep them healthy.Shrubs are tough and can take on all kinds of weather such as ice, frost, wind, sun, and snow. If they are properly winterized however, they will be able to withstand the damage that can be done to them over a long, cold winter. Come spring time, they will be ready to shine in all of their glory. Start Off EarlyBeginning early in November, the shrubs should begin to be winterized. If they are less than 6 months old, they should be protected with a windscreen made from wooden stakes and burlap. This will help to protect them from wind which can cause them to dry out and die. If they are tall, twine can be wrapped around them to help keep any ice or snow from collecting on the branches.Shrubs Near RoadsIf the shrubs are located near the road, they may get doused with salt from plow trucks. This salt can dehydrate the shrubs and damage them. Be sure to place a barrier between the road and shrubs. A barrier can be made using erosion control fabric attached to 2 x 4 stakes. This barrier will keep the salt from getting on or near the shrubs.Frost PreventionTo keep frost from damaging the shrubs,they should well insulated. This can be accomplished by adding a layer of mulch around the shrubs base. The layer should be between 2 and 4 inches. The mulch will help to regulae the temperature of the soil and prevent root damage due to repeated freezing and thawing of the roots. If shrubs are up against the house, falling ice and snow can damage them. They can be protected by placing an A frame built from plywood over them.