Winter in the western suburbs and Chicago can be unpredictable. One week it’s mild, the next it’s subzero with icy winds off Lake Michigan. For gardeners and property owners, these swings can be tough on plants. The good news? With the right strategies, you can protect your landscape and help it thrive come spring. 1. Extreme Cold When temperatures plunge below 28°F, plant tissues can freeze. Roots often survive deeper in the soil, but sudden cold snaps can kill even hardy pe