How to Care for Outdoor Plants When the Temperature Drops at Night
An unexpected late frost can kill or render many plants incapable of flower or fruit production. When a freeze is predicted, it often becomes imperative to protect delicate and cold-sensitive plants so they can withstand the cold night until warmer weather prevails. Frost accumulation can burn a plant's leaves, which will often leave them brown, brittle and dead. Water within the plant's leaves and stem can freeze, killing the plant. Any temperature below 32 degrees Fahrenheit can damage delicate plants, trees and shrubs. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Fan
- Extension cord
- Sheets
- Stakes
- Tomato cages
- Burlap bags
- Buckets
- Water wraps
Instructions
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1
Water the garden completely when a frost is predicted. The release of water into the atmosphere at night from the garden soil will elevate the surrounding temperatures and help protect your plants.
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2
Plug a fan into an extension cord, and run the fan on low throughout the night so it is gently hitting the trees, shrubs and plants that you wish to protect. Air flow will help prevent frost from forming on the leaves.
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3
Cover all plants an hour before sundown. Make sure to have them all covered by the time the sun sets because the temperatures can often plummet quickly in the dark.
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4
Carry any plants or containers into your home or garage. If the plant containers are too large to place inside your home or garage, then set them next to the side of your house where heat will seep out the walls and aid in maintaining a bit of warmth.
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5
Place sheets over large trees and shrubs. Prop sheets up using stakes on small shrubs or perennial plants.
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6
Slide tomato cages over cold-sensitive plants that will fit easily into the cage. Slide a burlap bag over the tomato cage to offer cold protection.
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Place buckets upside down over plants or tiny shrubs. Make sure the plant fits easily under the bucket and does not touch the cold, plastic sides or the leaves can be damaged.
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8
Purchase water wraps at a garden store. Fill with water and wrap around delicate vegetables. Water wraps come with detailed directions. These work well for tomatoes.
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9
Remove all covers, wraps and buckets promptly when the sun rises. The sun will help warm the plants naturally, so it's important they are uncovered to utilize the sun's warming ability.
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Tips & Warnings
Do not cut frost-damaged leaves from the plant. The damaged leaves will help insulate the plant if there are future nights of frost or freezing temperatures.
Always maintain a 3- to 4-inch layer of mulch on plants, shrubs and trees for insulation of the roots. Mulch can be peat moss, bark chips, sawdust or pine needles.
Never wash frost off plant leaves with a hose. This will damage the delicate leaves and might cause the plant's death.
