Book 29, Question 86 · Video
Why does a light frost harm tomatoes but not kale?
When temperatures drop below freezing, water inside leaf cells can form ice crystals that burst the cells. Tomatoes, basil, and squash are tender and turn black and mushy after frost. Kale, spinach, and carrots are hardy: they make extra sugars that act like antifreeze, and many taste sweeter after a chilly night. Knowing which plants are tender or hardy helps you plan planting.
Read the full answer →Watch on YouTubeSee the series on Amazon
What Crafty Clover says in this video
Intro
Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. Why does a light frost harm tomatoes but not kale?
The Big Idea
A chilly night can turn tomatoes black! But kale stays green and tasty. Why the difference?
Ice Crystals
Step one: Ice Crystals. When temperatures drop below freezing, water inside leaf cells can form ice crystals. Those crystals can burst the cells.
Tender Plants
Step two: Tender Plants. Tomatoes, basil, and squash are tender plants. After a frost, they can turn black and mushy.
Hardy Plants
Step three: Hardy Plants. Kale, spinach, and carrots are hardy, making extra sugars that act like antifreeze. Many even taste sweeter after a chilly night, and knowing which plants are tender or hardy helps you plan.
A Closer Look
Let's take a closer look! Tender. Tender. Hardy. Hardy.
Quick Facts
Quick facts! Kale can survive snow in some places. Ice bursts cells. Sugars act like antifreeze. Frost sweetens carrots.
Think Like a Scientist
Now, think like a scientist! Make two columns on paper. Label one tender and one hardy. List plants from your garden or a seed catalog. Sort each into a column. Which could you plant early?
Outro
When it freezes, ice crystals can burst leaf cells, so tender plants like tomatoes, basil, and squash turn black and mushy. Hardy plants like kale, spinach, and carrots make extra sugars that work like antifreeze, and often taste sweeter. Science is amazing! What will you discover next? Every question is a new adventure, so keep wondering and keep exploring with me! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!