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How to Protect Plants from Frost?

With a drop in temperature plants need our help, as the cold, damp winter weather can damage them. The survial of many species depends on healthy plants. They regulate the climate, improve the air we breath and are essential for water and soil quality. These and many more reasons proof their importance to us and therefore need to be protected when the weather is unkind. Read on to find out what plants need extra care and how to provide it.

Did you wake up in a winter wonderland or are you a step ahead planning for next winter? Whatever your current situation, we know how overwhelming the range of different types of snow blowers can be. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know in order to choose the right snow blower for your needs. So let's take a look at the different types of snow blowers and all the points you need to be aware before the purchase. 

1. Why is frost dangerous for plants?

We know that water expands when it freezes. This is why frost is particularly dangerous for plants, as it causes the water in the plants' cells to freeze. The expanding ice breaks the cell and damages tissue. As a results the plant is weakened, the foliage limp or discoloured and the quality of the bloom is impaired. 

There are however some good news! The first one is, that not every plant is sensitive to frost, while the second good news is, that those that are sensitive, can be helped! Read on to find out which plants need extra protection during winter season and how you can help them.


2. Which plants are most at risk?

Young plants

Most young saplings are very vulnerable to chilly nights when sudden freezes can be particularly damaging. Where possible store them indoors in a place that's cool, dry and well-ventilated. And don't forget to water them occasionally. 

Protect small potted plants, that can't be brought inside, under unheated glass or use horticultural fleece, which lets in light, air and water while also providing vital insulation. A temporary cold frame traps heat and is a good way to keep young plants safe from frost.

 

Tropical or tender plants

Any exotic plants in your garden will be out of their tropical comfort zone during the colder months and require extra protection.

If you are lucky enough to have a pineapple lily in your garden, then you should mulch over the top of planted bulbs. For potted plants, wrap in hessian and move to a sheltered spot. Banana on the other hand has different types. While the hardier musa basjoo can cope with a mild winter, especially when there's a thatch of straw to protect its crown, there are also tender species, such as Ensete ventricosum. They need potting up and placing under glass in order to survive winter.

 

Winter vegetables and fruit trees

With all the love and effort you put into your vegetable garden this year it is essential to now protect it from the upcoming winter. Use straw or shredded leaves to create a thick layer of insulation to protect the soil. While cold frames and row covers will keep the plants warm. It might not be obvious, but even during winter you should water your plants to keep the soil moist. This reduces stress factors and helps your plants survive winter. 

Just like young plants, citrus and olive trees of any age are very vulnerable during winter, as cold winds and severe frost can disfigure their foliage. Use windbreaks or fleece to protect them.


3. Best methods to protect plants from frost

Mulching to insulate the soil

Apply a thick layer of organic mulch made from chopped leaves, grass clippings and wood chips to the base of the plant after the first frost. Also straw provides a protective cover.

As the mulch breaks down, it adds nutrients, moisture and regulates the soil temperature.

 

Frost cloth and physical covers

Put plants under horticultural fleece – this lets in light, air and water while also providing vital insulation. A temporary cold frame traps heat and is a good way to keep especially young plants safe from frost.

Bed sheets, towels and even cardboard boxescan cover large plants and shrubs at night. Plastic sheeting is also an option but must never touch the plant or you risk serious frost damage.

 

Moving potted plants to sheltered spots

Where possible move your potted plants indoors and store them in a cool, dry and well-ventilated place. Check on them regularly and water just enough to keep the soil moist.


4. Practical Tips for Gardeners

Make sure to add a thick layer of mulch for insulation and cover well with old towels, sheets or blankets. Shrubs and trees can be wrapped in horticultural fleece. Once the days start to get warmer again, remember to remove the protective cover in order to avoid overheating the plants. But be sure to put it back if frost is expected at night.


5. Conclusion

Some plants are more sensitive to frost than others. Make sure to protect the once that are and if you do notice some frost damage, don't panic! In many cases the plant can be saved. With some extra care and patience it can recover during the warmer season. 

We are hoping you and your plants stay cozy and warm this winter season!

Read our article "November in the garden: the essential tasks" to ensure you have everything covered before winter arrives.

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