The life of both plants and pots can be prolonged in harsh climates by winterizing.
1. Wrap bubble wrap around the sides of all terra-cotta pots and any small wood and metal pots. Do not cover the bottom of the pots because water must be able to drain out of them.
2. For each pot, cut two pieces of 36-inch-wide burlap into strips long enough to cover the pot. Then crisscross the two strips of burlap and place the container upright in the center of the X.
3. Pull up the ends of the burlap.
4. For odd-shaped pots, sew the top with twine using the type of large needle that nurseries use for sewing burlap around the root ball of large shrubs and trees.
5. Tighten the burlap securely over the top of the pot.
6. Tie off the end with a sewing knot.
7. Elevate all the wrapped pots off the ground by two inches to ensure proper drainage.
8. Snuggle the pots together so they can protect one another from the harsh winter winds. If you have a wall or fence, place the pots behind it.
