How to Protect Your Plants During the Winter

Winter frosts and freezing temperature can quickly injure or even kill tender plants. It's important to protect plants from frosts and winter temperatures before it happens. Tender plants such as bedding plants small trees and young shrubs can be killed in a single frost.

There are many ways to protect plants during the winter. Different methods offer different amounts of protection from the frost. The amount of protection needed depends on the plant.

Protect Plants During the Winter by Mulching
Mulching is a great way to protect the base and roots of plants, trees, and shrubs. Mulching will help hold in the heat and protect the lower portion of the plant from frost, freezing temperatures, winds and other elements that could potentially harm plants.

Greenhouses Are Great for Winter Protection
The protection they offer in the winter is well worth the money spent on any type of greenhouse. However, not everyone can afford a fancy new greenhouse. However, simple hoop-style greenhouse can be built for around $150 using PBC pipe and visqueen. They work well to hold in the heat, block snow, winds, freezing rain and most importantly frost. If temperatures are still to cold, a small heater or even a dome light can be added inside to help generate heat. Cheap hoop-style greenhouses will last the entire season and maybe even a year or two.

These types of greenhouses can also be used all during the year to grow plants from seeds. They are a great addition and can be built any size needed to prepare plants for winter.

Mini Greenhouses Are Easy to Build and Create Great Protection
Not all plants can be moved to a cozy greenhouse for winter protection. Young trees, flower beds and tender perennials can be protected from winter elements by creating mini greenhouse type coverings. Using PVC pipe, old lumber or metal rods, create a small frame that will easily set over the plant and allow enough space for the plant and branches. Then using visqueen, tarps, or other plastic materials cover the frame securely so that it will with hold winds and rain.

Place the mini greenhouse over the plant and secure to the ground using stakes to push it into the soil. This will protect the plant from freezing temperatures and frost. During warm days be sure to remove the mini greenhouses so the plants don't get too hot and allow them to get fresh air.

Wrap Shrubs and Tender Trees with Old Blankets, Towels and Cloths During the Winter
Old blankets sheets and towels can be used during the winter to protect young trees and shrubs. In the south it's not uncommon to see tender plants wrapped in blankets or burlap. The wrappings will help protect the plants from the frosts and freezing winds.