How to Avoid Frost on Annual Flowers

Annual flowers are very susceptible to low temperatures. They can be damaged when the temperature drops to near or below freezing. Freezing can rupture the cell wall, making it very hard for the plant to survive. It is possible to keep your flowers alive for weeks or even a few months by protecting them from frost. Keep track of the weather and prepare ahead of time to protect your plants from an unexpected frost.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Water
• Covering material or jars
• Dark buckets
• Fan

1. Move potted plants to shelter. Containers can be moved to the garage, screened porch or inside the house. Move the plants underneath an awning or overhang if they cannot be brought inside.

2. Water in-ground plants before the evening. Water takes longer to loose heat and the surrounding air and ground will stay slightly warmer, preventing frost.

3. Cover plants with plastic or canvas tarps, bags or another covering. Try to create a frame that keeps the covering from touching the plants. Wide-mouth jars can be placed over small plants.

4. Add dark containers filled with water around your plants. These will gain heat during the day, which will help protect the plants at night.

5. Create a draft to blow the cold air from the plants. A fan can be set up near your plants, but it must be protected from the elements.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not run a fan in the rain and avoid placing it near standing water.

References

• Frost Protection for Your Plants and Flowers
• Frost Protection