How to Protect Ficus Trees From Frost

Ficus trees, while a great addition to any lawn or garden, can be very susceptible to damage from frost. So, it is important to understand how to protect these plants and keep them thriving. The process is simple and requires only basic tools and materials.

Things You'll Need

• Old grass, leaves or wood chips
• Large garbage bag
• Scrunchy tie-down

Instructions

1. Do not water the ficus tree a day before a possible frost. More water in the soil and in the plant itself will only magnify the frost's damaging properties.

2. Pile old grass, leaves or wood chips around the base of the ficus tree. Use as many as you can. This will help protect the tree's roots and keep frost away from its base.

3. Slide a large garbage bag over the top of the ficus tree. Pull it down to the base of the tree, making sure that it covers all open portions of the plant.

4. Wrap a scrunchy tie-down around the base of the tree. Wrap it several times and then clip it back to itself, thus securing the garbage bag around the tree.

5. Twist an old blanket or sheet around the base of the tree. This will help further insulate the cover and keep frost from getting inside the bag.

Tips & Warnings

• You can never use too many leaves or wood chips. The more you use, the better your ficus will be.

• This is only a temporary fix during nights of frost. You must remove the blanket and garbage bags on warm days and after the risk of frost has gone.