With overnight temperatures beginning to fall below 3C, gardeners are being urged to take action to protect their plants from frost. Frost can damage young shrubs, potted plants and tender seedlings if they are not protected in time.
Protect the most vulnerable plants first
Morris Hankinson, managing director of Hopes Grove Nurseries, has shared his top tips for protecting plants against cold weather and frost. His first recommendation is to protect younger plants, as tender, young or container-grown plants are the most vulnerable.
For potted plants, the advice is to bring them into covered spots such as a greenhouse or porch. If they cannot be moved, covering them with horticultural fleece can keep them safe from frost. The fleece should reach all the way to the ground and be secured so cold air cannot get underneath.
Dealing with heavy frost and watering
If a particularly heavy frost is forecast, gardeners may need to double layer the fleece, but it should not be left on longer than necessary. Fleece blocks light and ventilation, which can kill plants.
When frost is coming, watering schedules should be adapted. If the ground is particularly dry, plants can benefit from some hydration before the stressful conditions of frost. However, overwatering should be avoided, especially in cold, heavy soils.
Adjusting watering and leaving foliage in place
Over the winter, gardeners should switch from watering at night, which can leave water on leaves and stems and raise the risk of freezing. Watering in the morning gives water more time to absorb into the soil.
Although it can be tempting to cut everything back before winter, leaving some dead stems and foliage in place offers protection for plants and shelter for wildlife.
Not all plants need protection. Hardier plants such as lavender, sage, rosemary, thyme and foxgloves will be fine in a standard UK frost, as will hellebores, hardy geraniums and lupins. Established native shrubs and trees are also likely to be fine.
