Why is it important to protect your plants against frost?
Threat of frost usually occurs on still, clear and cold nights when the temperature drops low enough to freeze the moisture in plant leaves and buds, causing the cell walls to break and the plant to die. Some plants are hardy and not affected by this frost, while others need protection.
The average first heavy frost date for most parts of the country is from middle to late May, but this can and will vary, so the key is to be prepared and have your frost protection measures in place beforehand.
To protect plants from frost, you will need to cover them to prevent the moisture from freezing. While an unexpected frost can leave many gardeners puzzled to find anything to use as cover for their plants; it is important to use the right materials.
Frost Cover
Frost cover is an ultra-light, fabric fleece which is commonly used to protect the plants from extreme climatic conditions. As a temporary cover over stationery and susceptible plants it is very effective, especially if properly done. Insulate properly by letting the frost cover drape straight down right to the ground and secure with pins or pebbles.
Importance of Fabric frost covering
- It will allow moisture through while still protecting your plants from frost.
- It can trap the heat rising from the soil and create a warmer air bubble around the soil and the plant.
- It enables sufficient sunlight to penetrate through the blanket.
- The plants are protected from insects, birds, and even small animals.
Other ways to reduce cold damage to plants:
- Reduce the application of fertiliser because new growth is more vulnerable than older leaves.
- Avoid pruning or deadheading, as older growth will help in protecting the core of the plant from the cold.
- Change the location of tender pot plants to the shelter of verandas or overhangs
- Avoid stressing plants unnecessarily and water them as needed, but don’t over-water them. Water early in the morning to allow soil temperatures to warm up before night fall.
- Spread a thick layer of mulch to insulate the soil and keep the rootzone warm.
It is important to remove the cover after the threat of frost has passed so the plant can get light as well as to prevent heat build-up under the canopy once the sun comes out.
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