There can be several reasons why your evergreen ground cover is turning brown, but one common cause is desiccation or leaf burn. This occurs when winters are particularly dry or cold enough for the ground to freeze. During these conditions, evergreens do not receive enough water to compensate for the moisture lost through transpiration, which is the evaporation of water through foliage.
When the ground freezes, the roots of evergreens are unable to absorb water from the soil, leading to dehydration. In addition, cold temperatures can cause the foliage to lose water through evaporation more rapidly. This combination of factors can result in the browning of the leaves.
Desiccation is more likely to affect evergreen ground covers because they have a larger surface area of foliage compared to taller evergreen trees. The greater exposure to cold winds and winter sun can accelerate water loss from the leaves, making them more susceptible to drying out.
It’s important to note that not all evergreen ground covers are equally affected by desiccation. Some varieties have better tolerance to cold and drought conditions than others. Factors such as the specific species or cultivar, the health of the plant, and the location in your garden can all influence their susceptibility to browning.
To prevent desiccation and leaf burn in your evergreen ground cover, there are a few steps you can take. Firstly, you can provide supplemental watering during dry periods in the winter, especially if there has been little rainfall. Deep watering, where the water reaches the roots, is preferable to shallow watering, as it encourages the development of a strong root system.
Another measure you can take is to apply a layer of mulch around the base of the plants. Mulch helps to insulate the soil, retain moisture, and regulate temperature fluctuations. It also acts as a barrier against cold winds, reducing the drying effect on the foliage.
In particularly harsh winter conditions, you may consider protecting your evergreen ground cover with burlap or a breathable fabric cover. This can provide additional insulation and shield the plants from strong winds and extreme cold temperatures.
It’s worth mentioning that browning of evergreen ground covers can also be caused by other factors such as pests, diseases, or improper care. Inspect your plants for any signs of insect infestations or fungal infections, and consult with a local garden center or extension service if you suspect any issues.
The browning of evergreen ground covers is often a result of desiccation or leaf burn, which occurs when they do not receive sufficient water during dry or freezing winter conditions. Taking steps to provide adequate moisture, using mulch, and providing protection from harsh weather can help prevent browning and maintain the health of your evergreen ground cover.