Fort Bend County Master Gardeners Shares Expert Tips to Protect Plants Against Frost

Fort Bend County Master Gardeners are recommending you cover your plants during the warmest part of the day on Monday. This traps the heat of the day without blocking the sun for too long.

Here are some common methods used to protect plants from freezing:

1. Covering Plants: Covering plants with blankets, burlap, or tarps can help trap heat close to the plants and protect them from frost.
2. Mulching: Applying a thick layer of organic mulch, such as straw or wood chips, around the base of plants can help insulate the soil and protect the roots from freezing.
3. Watering: Watering the soil around plants before a freeze can help absorb and retain heat, providing some protection to the plants. However, be cautious not to overwater.
4. Frost Cloth or Blankets: Specialized frost cloth or blankets designed for plants can provide additional insulation
5. Row Covers: Using row covers made of materials like floating row cover fabric can protect plants from frost while allowing light and air to penetrate.
6. Cold Frame: Cold frames are simple and effective structures used in gardening to extend the growing season for plants, especially in colder climates. They are typically low, bottomless boxes with a transparent lid or cover, usually made of glass or clear plastic, that allows sunlight to penetrate while protecting plants from harsh weather conditions.
7. Heat Sources: Placing heat lamps near plants can provide additional warmth. Make sure to follow safety guidelines to prevent fire hazards.
8. Cold-Tolerant Plants: Whenever possible, select plant varieties that are more tolerant of cold temperatures.
9. Move Potted Plants: If possible, move potted plants indoors or to a sheltered area during periods of extreme cold.