Winter, winter go away. I'm mad at the groundhog. Especially for seeing his shadow. I hate winter more and more as I get older.

But, my daughter who has been in Florida for the last four years says the thing she misses most is the change of seasons. She wants some hills, too.

And my fuel oil dealer who was glum in December but smiling now says that the critical degree-days (how much heat you need) is about the same for this winter as it was for last.

And the weather guy on TV just reminded me that we just had the first anniversary of the second largest snowstorm in our history a few days ago. He says we've had 16 inches less snow this year than last.

Before I celebrate, I will note that I observed temperatures as low as negative four on my north-facing porch. That's lower than anything since about 1994, I think. That may challenge some of the plants that crept north into popularity in our zone 6 because of success in warmer winters. We'll see.

It may also put to the test any permanent planters that have been left unprotected outside. One trend that I am hearing is to use more perennials and small evergreens in containers to eliminate the job of annual reconstruction. Many of the evergreens are real tough but I question the hardiness of many traditional perennials in an unprotected pot outside.

Before I forget that I was complaining, there is the ice. Most of mine seem to be where I walked, drove, or tried to move snow. My landscape plantings seem just to have received a persistent cover of snow. That good insulation may make this an easy winter in the garden.

While on the subject of ice, let me remind you that the only plant safe deicing agents are sand and kitty litter. I know most of us don't follow that program but if we get excessive we can expect problems.

If you live along a well-traveled and well-salted road you may see some problems in plantings close to the road. Needle burn is common on evergreens slowly being tortured by salt exposure. I have seen lists of salt tolerant plants, which should be consulted if you are planting near a frequently salted busy road. Also, when planting near roads think about right of ways, visibility and the crews that maintain them.

Another decision that is often made early is about acquiring and using mushroom soil in the garden. Mushrooms grow in a state of high fertility. That level of fertility can damage and/or kill plants unless the soil has been aged. By aged I mean left lay unprotected outside in the elements for at least six months.

Aged mushroom soil is the equivalent to the best compost. If you have any question, a tomato plant is a great indicator. If it doesn't die in four or five days you are fine.

Yes, it's still winter. Yes, it's still cold. But it's been temperature consistent and not one that fluctuates wildly. Moisture has been adequate but not excessive. Our plants should like that. The days are getting longer. The sun is getting warmer. We gardeners have hope.