Putting Container-Planted Berries to Bed

6 Tips for Preparing Your Potted Berries for Winter

1. A thin layer of compost (about 1 in.) applied now to the surface of the soil will break down over winter feeding microbes in the existing soil. Do not fertilize as we don’t want to encourage leafing out during warm spells.
2. Any pruning for shape or to remove damaged canes should wait until early spring. (Note that many berries fruit on two-year-old canes, so pruned branches may wait a year to fruit. This is normal.)
3. Insulate pots by wrapping them in a cylinder of chicken wire. Then stuff the space in between with fall leaves or straw. (You’ll remove the insulation in the spring after the threat of prolonged cold weather has passed.)
4. Another way to protect roots from freezing is to sink the pots up to their rim in a compost pile. Alternatively, try a trash can filled with mulched leaves. In spring, lift pots out, and place them where desired.
5. You can also overwinter containerized berry plants by storing them in an unheated attached garage or cold cellar. Water sparingly, and when the weather warms, move them back outside.
6. If it doesn't get too cold where you live, you can try moving the pots to a protected area. (For instance, in Zones 6 and 7.) Try right up against the house.