Get to Know: Frost Protectors
If the forecast calls for evening temperatures below 40 degrees Fahrenheit, offer your plants some protection. From specialty products to around-the-house finds, here are options to help your plants through cold, winter weather. A few degrees can save your garden’s goods. In the morning, or when the weather warms, remove the covers to increase air flow and let in light.
Now let’s get growing, gardeners!
Insulating Blanket
This is made specifically to bundle your plant babies. It’s reusable, recyclable and protects from frost, freeze and sun. It’s porous for better air circulation and letting in rain.
- Medium-weight, 1.5 oz. material
- Opaque white
- Reusable
Landscape Fabric
Designed to go on the ground as a weed barrier, landscape fabric can also be used to cover frost-sensitive plants from hard frosts. Simply drape it over what you’re protecting, and call it a win.
- Lightweight
- Black
- Reusable
Bubble Wrap
Pop out this snappy solution to protect your precious foliage. Bubble wrap works well with all plants, and also makes a good insulating wrap for potted plants. It’s a good option that also lets light in during chilly days.
- Lightweight
- Clear
- Reusable
Milk Jugs & Plant Pots
Milk jugs or unused gallon plant pots work like a charm. For milk jugs, give them a good wash and cut off the bottom. Why not cut off the top? Later on, it may be useful to remove the jug’s lid to release trapped heat and moisture.
- Plastic
- Clear or opaque
- Reusable
Ancient Advice
Terracotta pots
The French have long used cloche à salade, glass or terracotta jars that protected plants from frost and wind. You can make something similar out of upturned terracotta pots. Be sure to remove during the day so your plants get light.
- Terracotta or clay
- Blocks light; use only at night
- Reusable
Put Them to Bed
Blankets or sheets
If you’re in a plant-mergency, look no further than the linen closet. While not the best option, cotton sheets or a light blanket can offer some protection from the cold. Unlike garden fabric however, rain could seriously weigh down your covers and harm seedlings beneath.
- Cotton or other
- Not a good choice for wet weather
- Reusable