Clean, sharpen, and put away your tools.

Decrease water and fertilizer on Christmas cactus if buds are developing.

Pot up some paperwhites for indoor bloom in six to eight weeks.

If your grass is frozen but not protected with snow, try not to walk on it too much.

If there is heavy snow, gently brush it away from bushes and small trees that may crack under the weight. I have a Japanese maple that always catches a ton of snow in its twigs – we have already had to bolt it together so now I am careful to brush it off.

Treat icy walkways with sand, not salt, to keep nearby soil healthy.

Treat yourself to a visit to a greenhouse or conservatory! I love the Orangerie and Limonaia at Tower Hill Botanic Garden in Boylston, MA. The warm air and plant fragrances are therapeutic.