How to Cover Plants for Winter
When frost is on the pumpkin it is time to move the potted plants indoors. If this is not possible then consider some alternatives. Some gardeners place boxes over their potted fuchsias and stuff newspapers or other insulating material between the pots. Others place potted geraniums inside holes they have dug in their gardens, which is trench or pit storage.
Most plant lovers know that fuchsias, geraniums and other tender plants need protection, but even hardy plants such as rosemary and lavender can suffer root damage during cold, wet winters.
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Things You'll Need
- Burlap sacks
- Straw
- Bubble wrap
- Packing or duct tape
- Scrap wood or shims
- Rubber or straw mat
Instructions
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1
Assess the plant's location. If a potted plant is beneath a tree or shaded area then move the plant to a sunny location far from the threat of falling branches.
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Place your potted plants on latticed rubber or straw mats to keep the plants off the cold earth while allowing the root systems access to air.
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3
Insulate potted plants with burlap sacks by securing the sacks around the container to protect the root system. Place straw on exposed potting soil.
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Insert shims or scrap wood into the edges of the pot to create a frame for the bubble wrap.
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Wrap the bubble wrap around the shim frame. If your plant has no overhead cover, place the bubble wrap over the top of the container.
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Check that the bubble wrap allows some air to circulate. The bubble wrap should not be air-tight as this will trap moisture and cause frost damage.
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Tips & Warnings
Vermiculite, peat moss, beauty bark or saw dust can be used in place of straw.
Be cautious as springtime approaches. A warm day often leads into a frosty night. Do not unwrap your plants prematurely.
Moisture kills plants more than plummeting temperatures. Prevent root systems from freezing by allowing the air to ventilate and expel moisture. Do not cover the bottoms of your plant's pots.
