How do gardeners protect plants from a surprise frost?

What Crafty Clover says in this video

Intro

Hi there, curious minds! I'm Crafty Clover! Let's discover something amazing. How do gardeners protect plants from a surprise frost?

The Big Idea

A surprise frost is on the way! Gardeners have to act fast. How do they protect their plants?

Cover Up

Step one: Cover Up. In the evening, cover plants with an old sheet, burlap, or row cover that reaches the ground. That traps warmth rising from the soil, and plastic should not touch the leaves.

Water and Move

Step two: Water and Move. Water the soil beforehand, because damp soil holds more heat. Bring potted plants inside for the night.

Morning After

Step three: Morning After. Take the covers off in the morning when the temperature rises. Checking the forecast helps you be ready for the next cold night.

A Closer Look

Let's take a closer look! Traps heat. Holds warmth. Come inside. Be ready.

Quick Facts

Quick facts! A blanket works because it traps heat from the ground, not because it makes heat. Damp soil holds heat. Uncover in the morning. Plastic shouldn't touch leaves.

Think Like a Scientist

Now, think like a scientist! With a grown-up, put two thermometers outside at night. Cover one with a sheet. Leave the other uncovered. Check both in the morning. Which one stayed warmer?

Outro

To protect plants from a surprise frost, cover them in the evening with a sheet or burlap that reaches the ground to trap soil warmth, water the soil first, and bring pots inside. Uncover in the morning and watch the forecast. Science is amazing! Keep wondering and keep exploring! Share what you learned with someone at home, and see what they think! Crafty Clover can be found on Amazon Books, Google Bookstore, and Apple Books. Available for purchase or download! Bye for now!