To protect plants from frost effectively, the key steps involve watering, mulching, and covering plants properly before the frost hits. Key methods include:
- Water plants deeply before frost to help soil retain heat, which keeps roots warmer overnight. Moist soil acts as a natural heat reservoir.
- Mulch around plant bases to insulate roots and prevent freezing.
- Cover plants before sunset using breathable materials like frost cloth, old sheets, blankets, or burlap. Covers trap radiant heat from the ground and protect foliage.
- Secure covers so they extend to the ground and do not touch leaves, using stakes or poles to prevent damage.
- For added heat, incandescent holiday lights or a small heat source under the cover can help.
- Bring potted or sensitive plants indoors if possible.
- Remove covers in the morning once temperatures rise above freezing.
Avoid plastic coverings directly on plants as they can cause damage. Coverings work best if fully enclosing plants and trapping heat close to the soil. Frost protection tents, cold frames, row covers, and mulch can also be used for insulation. These principles help prevent frost damage by maintaining warmer microclimates around plants' roots and foliage during cold snaps.
