Cold Care Tips
Many states have already experienced their first dose of sleet, snow, and winter weather advisories. These extreme and often unpredictable weather conditions are shocking to our plants as sudden changes in temperature can result in frost damage from the inside out. The water within plant cells can freeze and cause stems and foliage to weaken and discolor, and potentially distort plant growth. Also, when the ground remains frozen for a long period of time, plant roots are unable to absorb nutrients and moisture from the soil. Though the young and newly transplanted are at higher risk of frost damage than established plants, protection from the cold helps promote healthy growth regardless of age. Use these cold protection tips to ensure your Southern Living Plant Collection welcomes you in spring and years to come.
Water: Adjust your watering schedule to “harden off” plants. Hardening off is the process of gradually exposing plants to different conditions. Decrease the amount of water given to your plants about a month before first frost and this will help plants prepare for winter weather. After a few hard freezes, increase the amount of water to add moisture to the plants and the surrounding ground. It’s best to water when the temperature is 40 degrees or above. Do not water immediately before or during sleet, snow, or severe wind chill.
Mulch: Add mulch to protect roots and bulbs. Apply about 4 inches of mulch around plants and in gardens and beds with bulbs and perennials. The mulch will help protect roots and bulbs from severe weather temperatures while providing much needed nutrients and moisture.
Cover: Drape material to protect plants from severe weather, especially sleet and snow. Drive stakes into the ground around the plants and drape material over the stakes. Choose burlap or any cloth material that will allow air flow. Be sure the cover does not have direct contact with the plants and sleet or snow is immediately removed from the cover so the foliage is not damaged. Cover is especially beneficial for new plants or plants that were recently transplanted and have not had enough time to establish a strong root system.
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To browse the full Southern Living Plant Collection, visit www.SouthernLivingPlants.com.
