HOW TO… PROTECT YOUR PLANTS IN THE COLDER MONTHS
At all times during the winter months there is a danger of frost. Taking precautionary measures will protect tender plants from exposure to cold temperatures and subsequent damage. Here are our tips to help you decide which method is right for your garden.
WATER
Watering your plants a day or two before the frost is expected is a simple yet effective way to reduce frost damage. Wet soil will hold more heat than soil that is dry. Light watering in the evening hours, before temperatures drop, will help raise humidity levels and reduce frost damage.
RAISED BEDS
Designing a garden with raised beds will also help guard plants against frost during cold temperatures. Cold air tends to collect in sunken areas rather than higher mounds. Raised beds also make covering of plants easier.
MULCH
This is a perfect solution for some gardens; however, not all tender plants will tolerate heavy mulching; therefore, these may require covering instead. Popular mulching materials that can be used include straw, pine needles, bark, and loosely piled leaves. Mulch helps to lock in moisture and holds in heat. It works best when its depth is two to three inches.
COVER
The most popular way to guard against frost is with the use of covering. Old blankets, sheets, and even burlap sacks work well and can be draped loosely and secured with stakes, rocks, or bricks. Additionally a simple and modern way to cover your plants is to purchase a frost protection fleece from garden centres and online sites. Covering tender garden plants in the evening will help retain heat and protect them from freezing.
The best way to know what type of precautionary measure you should take for your garden plants is knowing their individual needs. The more you know the better off your garden and plants will be.
Ginkgo Gardens are a specialist horticultural business serving the domestic market, property management companies, social housing groups, hotels, schools and business headquarters in London and the South East.
