The Farmers' Almanac winter forecast 2025 predicts 'frequent snowstorms' that could wipe out your planting – here's how to get ahead and prepare your garden

It's never too early to think about the winter garden, and more specifically, making sure your yard is prepared for winter weather. This is especially true this year, as the Farmers' Almanac predict harsh and frequent snowstorms across the US.

Whether you're a novice or veteran gardener, it's important to review your winter gardening checklist ahead of the season arriving. Trusted source of weather predictions for Canada and the US, the Farmers' Almanac, is warning of 'dramatic swings and widespread wintry weather' in its winter extended forecast 2025. So, now is the time to gather what you need to ensure your plants make it through the harshest season.

Whether you're wondering how to protect plants from frost this year, or if you should remove snow from plants, we've got you covered. Here's what the experts say to expect and what to do to keep your garden safe.

Don't let early snow catch you by surprise

If you're all caught up on the Farmers' Almanac fall forecast 2025, you'll know early snow is coming this year for parts of the US.

'The season officially begins with the winter solstice on December 21, 2025, but the cold and snow might make an appearance as early as September in some areas of the country,' the winter forecast reports.

This is most notably the Northeast and Great Lakes regions, which should stock up on plant frost covers (from Amazon) for more tender plants. You can even use bed sheets to protect plants from frost.

'The season’s coldest temperatures will be found from the Northern Plains to New England. Readers in the Northwest should also prepare for a cold winter, especially in Idaho and Washington,' the report further notes.

Gardeners in this region should consider using plant cloches (from Amazon) to protect plants from frost and may even want to move more tender plants into a greenhouse for the winter months.

For a more low-maintenance approach, opt for filling your winter garden with frost-hardy plants that can withstand the coldest temperatures for your region.

Prevent waterlogging during wet winter

Other parts of the US can expect less snow and more rain, according to the Farmers' Almanac winter forecast 2025:

'Winter in the Southeast will see average temperatures with many wet periods,' it states.

'Texas and the Southern Plains (western Kansas, Oklahoma, and portions of Nebraska and New Mexico) are on tap for a wetter-than-average winter with periodic cold snaps. While snow will be limited, the region may face several cold rain events and occasional freezing precipitation, particularly in northern areas.

'A wet winter is also predicted in the Southwest with near-average temperatures,' the report continues.

This is where winter lawn care is key, ensuring grass roots don't suffer from excessive rain. Aerating your lawn ahead of this weather (using an aerator tool from Amazon) is key in improving drainage.

There are also lots of ways to fix a waterlogged lawn if you do notice an issue. You may also want to consider installing a French drain to better manage moisture for the wet winter ahead.

FAQs

When should I stop watering my lawn this year?

You should generally stop watering your lawn in fall when temperatures drop below 40°F and the ground begins to freeze. Some areas of the US are expected to have early frost and snow, so it's worth keeping an eye on the local frost forecast for your US hardiness zone and act accordingly.

Just because outdoor temperatures drop in winter, it doesn't mean you can't have a beautiful outdoor space. Consider growing the best winter plants for pots and borders to add color to your yard during the coldest months, or incorporate some features to create a winter sensory garden.