Got Frost? 3 Easy Tasks You Can Do to Protect Your Plants from the Cold

For anyone who has recently been gardening or has been watching spring flowers bloom, you know the anxiety that comes from hearing the weather channel forecast a freeze warning. The warm temperatures our Chattanooga area has been having lately has tricked plants into thinking spring has arrived. Unfortunately, it doesn’t look like we are quite “out of the woods” yet- pun intended. To relieve any unease, here are some things you should know for the next time a freeze warning is in your future to keep your plants safe from destructive frost.

The amount of damage that is caused by freezing temperatures depends on the length of time it is below freezing and how low the degree. Plant tissue can freeze causing the cell walls to expand and be destroyed. Try to have an idea of what hardiness level your plants are at so you can take appropriate precautions to help keep your plants safe. You can do a simple evaluation to determine hardiness.

-Is it a young plant or established? Typically, young, newer plants are much more prone to frost damage than more established plants with older foliage.

-Did you just purchase your plants? If so, were they from a greenhouse or were they planted outdoors? Plants that were grown outside are more tolerant to the cold because they were able to be somewhat “hardened off.”

No matter the hardiness, it is always a good idea to take provisions to help shield your plants and garden from the dropping temperatures.

Here are 3 easy and basic things you can do-

1. BRING INSIDE

Bring potted plants indoors. The garage will work fine, the temperature just needs to be above 40 degrees.

2. COVER

Cover your plants with a layer of plastic or a sheet to create a temporary greenhouse effect. Placing a bucket or milk jug with the top cut off would work fine as well.

3. WATER

Water everything the evening before the frost. Moist soil loses heat slower than dry soil. Some of the moisture will evaporate into the air, keeping the plant warmer.

If you would like more information or advice on what to do to prepare for a freeze warning, send us a message or give us a call. We would be happy to answer any questions for you. You can click the GreenStreet Logo below to access our website.

GreenStreet Landscape Company has a highly experienced and knowledgeable team to help you with any of your landscaping needs. Call or text us at 423-240-2748 or send an email to info@greenstreetlandscapecompany.com.