Book 29, Question 87
How do gardeners protect plants from a surprise frost?
Cover plants in the evening with an old sheet, burlap, or row cover that reaches the ground, so warmth from the soil is trapped.
Plastic should not touch leaves. Water the soil beforehand, because damp soil holds more heat. Bring pots inside. Take off covers in the morning when the temperature rises. Checking the forecast helps you be ready.
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Quick answers
How do gardeners protect plants from a surprise frost?
Trap heat by draping the plant with a frost cloth or sheet NOT plastic tarp.
Source: NC State University
More fun facts
- Garden cloches made from cut plastic bottles protect plants from frost.
- Cold frames, grow tunnels, floating row covers, and similar structures can also trap radiant heat from the soil to help prevent frost from forming on vegetables or other plants.
- Fences, buildings, temporary coverings, and adjacent plantings can all serve as windbreaks and protect plants from cold winds.
- Bringing plants indoors is the easiest way to protect them from frost or freeze damage.
- Vegetables, annuals, and tropical plants grown outdoors are the most practical plants to protect during an early frost or freeze event.
Sources: NC State University, Iowa State University, University of Florida