Use the branches from your old Christmas tree as winter protection for tender or early-flowering plants. You can always shred or recycle them in the spring. Something else you can do is to prop the tree up and hang winter treats for the birds on it. The branches give them quick shelter if a hungry cat wanders by.
As long as it isn't below freezing, and if the ground isn't frozen, you can still plant spring bulbs, evergreens, and deciduous shrubs.All your shrubs and trees--except evergreens and spring-flowering plants (forsythias, spireas, pussy willows, etc.)--can be pruned now.
If there is a warm spell, get a head start on yard clean-up. It is too early to rake, but you can pick up branches and all the trash that seems to end up in one's yard.
Start collecting seed and plant catalogues and plan your garden and any changes in landscaping for the year. Just remember that planting, pruning, watering, and weeding come along with anything you plant!
For more detailed information on gardening and lawn care in your area, contact:
http://www.yardandgarden.extension.iastate.edu or your county extension office
Iowa Master Gardener Program (Call us with your questions 10am to noon and 1-4:30pm, M-F--515-294-3108 or contact us via e-mail: hortline@iastate.edu)
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