Snow Pros and Cons

gardens turn gray and dark during and after snow storms. (charlotte ekker wiggins photo)

Snow Pros and Cons

Today's topic is a different way to look at snow and ice. I live in mid-Missouri, the bellybutton of the state, and USDA Hardiness zone 6A. The hardiness zone is used by gardeners to help select plants that will survive in our particular temperatures. We have been getting progressively warmer over the years amidst a continuing drought so having rain, and snow, in our upcoming forecast, is cause to celebrate. 
The challenge with snow where I live is that it can start out as rain; as temperatures drop turn to ice, then rain turning to snow covers ice. I stay home during these storms, stocked up with books, cat food and hot chocolate. A dear friend lost her husband 31 years ago driving in ice; I remember her loss every time we have ice in the forecast.
But winter precipitation is more than danger and inconvenience, it's actually an important part of a garden's winter season. Here's how:

Insulation: Snow acts as a natural insulator, providing a layer of protection to plants, soil, native bees and bees in hives, from extreme cold temperatures. This insulation can help prevent frost damage to plants' roots, protect native bees hibernating in the ground and keep bees in their hive clusters.
Protective Cover: Snow can also act as a protective cover for certain plants, shielding them from harsh winds and reducing the chances they dry out. I think of snow as white mulch.
Dormancy: Some plants require a period of cold temperatures to go through dormancy, and snow helps to facilitate this process, promoting healthier growth when spring arrives.
Nutrients: Snow contains trace amounts of nutrients that are beneficial to plants. As it melts, these nutrients are released into the soil, providing a natural fertilizing effect.
Moisture: As snow melts, it also adds moisture to the soil. This can be beneficial, especially in regions where water is scarce during the winter months. The slow melting process also allows the moisture to deeply penetrate the soil, helping to supplement the low water tables.

On the other hand, ice and snow has its garden challenges.

Excess Moisture: In some cases, heavy or prolonged snowfall can lead to excess moisture in the soil, causing problems such as root rot in certain plants that are sensitive to waterlogged conditions. It can also kill hibernating native bees inn soil. If moisture gets into bee hives, it can kill the colonies. Bees don't die from cold but they do perish from moisture.
Compaction: Snow can contribute to soil compaction, especially if it becomes densely packed. Compacted soil restricts root growth and hampers water infiltration. You don't want people walking over flower beds when snow is melting.
Disease: Snow cover can create conditions conducive to the development of certain plant diseases, especially if the snow remains for an extended period. Think fungal infections.
Weight on Branches: Wet, heavy snow can accumulate on tree branches, causing them to bend or break under the weight. This can lead to damage to trees and shrubs. Another reason to carefully prune fruit trees after their third year of growth; the right pruning can help branch development.
Delayed Spring: In regions with prolonged snow cover, the arrival of spring may be delayed. This can impact the growing season including native and honey bees.

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What else can you think of in terms of pros and cons of snow and ice?

Charlotte