How to protect plants for the fall and cool weather, by THV11 on YouTube. 1 min 24 s.
- Video length
- 1 min 24 s
- Time to do it
- 30 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Check the forecast each evening. When overnight lows are expected near or below freezing, plan to cover plants before sunset.
Water the soil deeply the day before a cold night. Damp soil holds warmth better than dry soil.
Spread a 2 to 3 inch layer of straw or leaves around the base of plants. Keep mulch a little away from stems so they do not rot.
Push stakes or hoops into the ground around tender plants. They hold the cover off the leaves.
Drape frost cloth or an old bedsheet over the stakes so it reaches the ground. Do not let fabric touch the foliage.
Weigh down the edges with stones or bricks so wind cannot lift the cover.
Remove the cover in the morning once the temperature rises. Take it off so plants get light and air.
Move potted plants into a shed, garage or against a warm wall for the coldest nights.
Tips and common mistakes
Never wrap plants in plastic sheeting, since trapped moisture can freeze and damage leaves.
Cover plants before sunset so the soil can release heat under the fabric overnight.
Water in the morning rather than late evening on freezing nights to avoid ice around roots.
Questions
What temperature should I start covering plants?
Start covering tender plants when the forecast is around 32 F or lower. Some sensitive plants need cover a few degrees above freezing.
Can I use a plastic sheet instead of frost cloth?
No, plastic traps moisture and can freeze against the leaves. Use breathable fabric like frost cloth or a bedsheet.
Do I need to uncover plants every day?
Yes, remove covers in the morning when it warms up. Leaving them on blocks light and airflow.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
