With the Columbus fall in full swing, it’s time to start preparing your topsoil for the hard Ohio winter ahead. A common side effect of extreme cold and frost during the winter months is soil erosion. Erosion occurs when the earth’s surface becomes corroded, dissolved or worn away, resulting in the decomposition of earth leaving non-level surfaces, generally affected by water, ice and other weather conditions.
The negative effect of erosion is that it results in the loss of nutrients and decreases the overall soil productivity, limiting the amount of air flow to plants and organisms in the spring and summer months. Many people think of winter as a time to walk away from the yard work and prepare for spring planting, however, the truth is quite the opposite. There are various methods to protect your topsoil throughout fall and winter to better prepare it for spring time.
Winter Rye
Another common ground cover is winter rye. Winter rye is a dense crop ground cover that will provide warmth and support to the soil during the fall and winter. Early fall is the best time for sowing and it will endure the cold temperatures during winter. It’s important to plant winter rye seeds before the first freezing temperatures to ensure the seeds can start to germinate.
Organic Method
One method includes covering the topsoil with a layer of organic mulch. This can consist of compost, straw or grass clippings. Organic methods provide nutrients to the soil throughout the winter while reducing the effects of erosion from weather pressure, such as rain and snowfall, on the mulch. Fall is an ideal time to cover your flowerbeds with mulch because annual and perennial plants have died down which leaves an open space with plenty of room to provide the adequate amount of mulch for the area.
Juniper
Evergreen plants are successful in protecting topsoil during the winter months. Juniper is an evergreen that creates a nice blanket for topsoil and reduces the direct exposure of soil to winter weather conditions. Generally, is does not grow more than six to eight inches tall and will grow in both warm and cold climates. The best time to plant juniper is between spring and late fall to allow ample time for seeds to germinate.
From organic compost and grass clippings to winter rye and juniper plants, your soil should stay protected and free from erosion causing conditions. Another important aspect of ensuring that topsoil maintains its nutritional value, and to prevent erosion through the winter, is choosing the right topsoil company. Jones Topsoil is the leader in providing quality topsoil, sand and gravel to central, Ohio areas. Offering a wide variety of topsoil and other ground covers, Jones Topsoil delivers straight to your home. For more information about products and services, visit the website.
