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Plants too close to the house during winter #928317

Asked April 13, 2026, 8:11 PM EDT

Hi all, I plan on removing some daylilies from the border of my house (giving them to those who want them) and replacing them with more native varieties. Something I noticed over the winter is that the snow around the house melts much faster than the rest of the yard, which makes sense since the house does radiate heat, but this is my first winter in the house and I never really put much thought into it before. My concern is that with the consistent warmer ground around the house, some plants may start popping up too early and then dying out or getting damaged by frost. I have no other evidence to back this up besides gut feelings. I'm sure this isn't uncommon thing, so I figured I would reach out to ask if this is something I should keep in mind? Maybe there is a list of plants that are extra hardy and can survive any frost/snow on growth that popped up too early? Or is that just not something that has been an issue for anyone and I am just worrying too much? :) Thanks, Trevor

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

Thank you for reaching out.

You really don’t have to worry about perennials.  They come up when the ground is warm enough and are hardy enough to survive.  You made lose some leaves or they may freeze, but you will not lose the plant.  It will have to get into low 20s to really do damage.  If you are concerned you can always cover them with a sheet. Also the heat off the house will help them survive easier.

As far as a list, you need to check out plants that are hardy in your zone which is a zone 4 or colder zone 3.

I hope this helps!

Deb Kroon Replied April 13, 2026, 8:57 PM EDT

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