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Book 29, Question 98 · Video

How do gardeners tuck their beds in for winter?

Video · 1:49 · Crafty Clover explains, from A Million Whys Book 29

After the ground freezes, gardeners may spread a layer of mulch over perennials and strawberries to keep the soil from thawing and freezing over and over, which can push plants out of the ground. They drain hoses, wrap tender shrubs, and cover rain barrels. Snow is a natural blanket. Letting plants rest is part of the cycle.

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What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. How do gardeners tuck their beds in for winter?

The Big Idea

Gardens need tucking in for winter! Just like you at bedtime. How do gardeners do it?

Mulch Blanket

Step one: Mulch Blanket. After the ground freezes, gardeners may spread mulch over perennials and strawberries. It keeps the soil from thawing and freezing over and over during warm spells.

Frost Heave

Step two: Frost Heave. Thawing and refreezing can push plants right out of the ground. This is called frost heave.

Other Chores

Step three: Other Chores. Gardeners drain hoses, wrap tender shrubs, and cover rain barrels. Snow is a natural blanket, and letting plants rest is part of the cycle.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! Over plants. Drained. Wrapped. Natural blanket.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! Frozen ground thawing and refreezing is called frost heave. Snow is a blanket. Mulch protects strawberries. Plants rest in winter.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! Cover one small patch of soil with leaves. Leave another patch bare. On a cold day, check the soil temperature in each. Write down the numbers. Which patch was warmer?

Outro

After the ground freezes, gardeners spread mulch over perennials and strawberries to stop frost heave, when thawing and refreezing pushes plants up. They drain hoses, wrap shrubs, and cover barrels, while snow makes a natural blanket. Science is amazing! Remember, every big discovery starts with a small question. Keep looking, keep learning, and keep asking why! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!

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