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- 29th Nov 2024
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10 tips to protect your outdoor plants from the cold weather
Winter in the North East can be… bitter, to say the least. And we’ve been fretting about how to keep our outdoor potted plants from freezing to death (literally).
The Royal Horticultural Society (RHS) emphasises the importance of frost protection, saying: “Plant cells can be damaged or even destroyed by frost. Repeated freezing and thawing, or very rapid thawing, can be particularly damaging to plants.”
So, in an effort to save our lovely pots, here are ten tips to see them through until spring.
1. Choose hardy plants
Start by selecting plants that are naturally suited to colder climates. Hardy plants and native species are typically better equipped to withstand frost and freezing temperatures. If you’re planning ahead, consider incorporating these resilient options into your garden to minimise winter maintenance.
2. Mulch your soil
A layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips, straw, or garden compost, acts as an insulating blanket for your soil. This helps protect plant roots from freezing temperatures while also retaining moisture. Mulch suppresses weeds and improves soil quality over time, offering long-term benefits to your garden. For best results, apply mulch generously around the base of your plants in late autumn.
3. Use protective covers
Frost-sensitive plants can benefit from a protective layer of horticultural fleece, burlap, or even repurposed bedsheets on particularly cold nights. These materials provide insulation while still allowing air and light to penetrate. To prevent damage, ensure the covers don’t directly touch the plants—use stakes or a simple framework to keep the material suspended.
4. Relocate potted plants
Containers are especially vulnerable to frost since the soil in pots can freeze more quickly than garden beds. Move potted plants to sheltered areas, such as against house walls or under a porch, where they’ll be protected from wind and extreme cold. Grouping pots together creates a small microclimate, adding an extra layer of protection. For additional insulation, wrap pots in bubble wrap or hessian sacks.
5. Water wisely
Keeping soil moist can help retain warmth, but timing is key. Water plants early in the day when temperatures are above freezing, allowing the water to penetrate the soil before nighttime frost sets in. Avoid watering in the evening, as waterlogged soil can freeze and damage roots.
6. Prune with caution
Hold off on pruning in late autumn, as this can encourage tender new growth that’s vulnerable to frost damage. Instead, wait until late winter or early spring to trim back dead or damaged parts of plants. This ensures your pruning promotes healthy growth when the risk of frost has passed.
7. Install windbreaks
Cold winds can exacerbate frost damage by drying out plants and making them more susceptible to freezing. Temporary windbreaks made from burlap or plastic sheeting can shield sensitive plants from icy gusts. Permanent options, like hedges or fencing, provide long-term protection while adding structure to your garden.
8. Use cloches and cold frames
For smaller plants or seedlings, cloches and cold frames offer an excellent way to shield against frost. These mini-greenhouses trap warmth while still allowing light to reach your plants. They’re especially useful for extending the growing season or protecting early spring vegetables.
9. Lift tender plants
Delicate plants such as dahlias, cannas, or certain bulbs may not survive prolonged exposure to frost. Dig them up before the first frost and store them indoors in a cool, dry place until spring. This ensures they’ll be ready to replant once the weather warms.
10. Prepare a backup plan
No matter how well you prepare, severe weather can still take a toll on your plants. Keep a supply of protective materials, like fleece or straw, on hand to act quickly during unexpected cold snaps. Additionally, consider overwintering certain plants indoors to guarantee their survival.
THE ‘KEEP YOUR PLANTS ALIVE’ SHOPPING LIST
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