Chill Out! Prep Your Plants for Freezing Temps

Protecting your landscape during a freeze is crucial to prevent damage to plants, turf, and irrigation systems. Here are some tips:

1. Protect Plants

-Cover Sensitive Plants: Use frost cloth, burlap, or sheets to cover delicate plants. Avoid plastic, as it can trap moisture and damage plants.

- Move Potted Plants Indoors: If possible, bring potted plants inside or to a sheltered area.

- Add Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of plants to insulate roots and retain warmth.

2. Water Wisely

- Water Before a Freeze: Moist soil retains heat better than dry soil. Water plants deeply the day before the freeze, but avoid waterlogging.

- Turn Off Irrigation Systems: Prevent water from freezing in pipes by shutting off your irrigation system and draining any standing water.

3. Protect Your Lawn

- Avoid Traffic: Walking or driving on a frozen lawn can damage the grass blades, which become brittle when frozen.

-Apply a Winter Fertilizer: Use a slow-release fertilizer before the freeze to strengthen your lawn's root system.

4. Safeguard Trees and Shrubs

-Prune Wisely: Remove dead or weak branches that could break under the weight of ice or snow.

- Wrap Young Trees: Use tree wraps or burlap to protect young or thin-barked trees from freezing temperatures.

5. Protect Outdoor Equipment

- Drain Hoses and Faucets: Disconnect garden hoses and drain outdoor faucets to prevent freezing and cracking.

- Winterize Water Features: Drain fountains or ponds that are not designed to handle freezing weather.

6. Post-Freeze Recovery

- Wait to Prune: Avoid pruning damaged plants immediately. Wait until new growth emerges to assess the extent of the damage.

- Gradually Uncover Plants: When temperatures rise, remove coverings during the day to allow sunlight and airflow.

Proper preparation and timely action can minimize freeze damage and help your landscape recover quickly.