As the cold season approaches many of us are worried about our plants that we worked so hard to grow. You probably find yourself wondering how to best prevent frost killing plants you put time and effort into all year.
There are a variety of factors that you must consider when deciding which method will work best for you such as how many plants you have, what kind of plants they are, and what the climate is like where you live.
Depending on the plant, there are a few different options that you may be able to try out to keep your plants alive through the winter and spring frost.
Some easy preventative measures are keeping up with the Arizona weather forecast so you can be aware of any potential frost dates and be proactive about protecting your plants.
What plants can survive a freeze?
One of the easiest ways you can prevent frost damage to your plants is to research and plant frost-proof plants in your garden.
Some of the most common frost-proof plants includes:
● Pansies
● Hosta
● Primrose
● Siberian Iris
● Lily-of-the-Valley
Will Watering Prevent Frost Damage?
A commonly asked question is whether or not watering your plants will prevent frost damage.
A good rule of thumb is to water your plants thoroughly if there is not going to be rain before freezing temperatures hit.
Keeping your plants moisturized is key to keeping your plants alive during Arizona’s cold winters. The moisture in the ground helps to keep it warmer which can help to prevent plant freeze damage.
Plant Covers Freeze Protection
Another commonly used method to help protect your plants from the cold air is to cover them up.
There are a variety of different types of covers you can use on your plants such as burlap, a cloche, sheets or blankets.
These covers work by preventing the freezing air from getting to the plant and keeping the moisture locked into your plant, preventing cold injury.
You can even make your own frost protection container for your plants by recycling old milk jugs into covers.
Another quick fix is to try and pack on a thick layer of mulch around your plant. This will keep it well insulated.
These methods typically work best if you are expecting a light frost. You can remove the covers as soon as the warm Arizona weather returns.
Using these few tips, keeping your plants safe during the freezing months should be easy and stress-free.