A spring frost can harm early plantings in the garden, but
it need not, if the gardener takes a few simple precautions.
First, potted plants can be moved to a sheltered spot when a
frost is expected, such as overnight or during a sudden wintry storm. A garage, greenhouse, garden shed, or indoors will usually fit the bill till the frost has passed.
Plantings in the ground can be covered to protect them from
frost. Nurseries and garden centers offer foam cones and other plant coverings. But
simple household items may work equally well. I have used many of these things
to tuck in my plants during spring frosts:
- brown paper grocery bags
- fabric remnants
- flour sacks
- gift bags
- lightweight curtains
- paper or reusable fabric shopping bags
- pillowcases / sheets
- socks
- tablecloths
- tee shirts
I try to keep old fabric items (as listed above) for this
purpose, rather than tossing them out, once they become too frayed or tattered
for their original uses.
Some gardeners use plastic dry cleaning bags, garbage bags,
sheeting, or shopping bags to protect their outdoor plants from frost. Personally,
I prefer coverings that offer some breathability.
It’s important to cover plants gently, being careful to
avoid breaking off branches, buds, or leaves. For larger plants, it’s often
helpful to place a plant hoop, a tomato cage, or a few garden stakes strategically and
drape the covering on top. Be sure to anchor the covering on the ground with
some dirt or a few rocks, so it won’t blow away.
Frost doesn’t have to destroy spring plants. And warmer days
are coming!
NOTE: This blogger has no affiliation with any product/s mentioned in this post and received no remuneration from the manufacturer/s or product promoter/s for this post.
Image:
Pixabay - public domain
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