Although most shrubs and trees survive Texas winters, you should always be ready for a serious cold snap. Did you know frost damage to landscape plants can even occur with temperatures in the upper 30’s?
Do not use plastic, such as tarps or plastic sheeting to cover plants. Plastic will transmit cold air to the plants, causing more harm than good. We recommend using cotton fabric or frost cloth to protect plants from frost.
Lightweight cotton fabric (i.e., bedsheets, thin blankets) will retain heat and provide frost protection for your plants. However, cotton can restrict the daylight reaching the plant and may become heavy when saturated with moisture. Because of this, it may be necessary to remove and reapply the fabric depending on the weather conditions.
Special frost cloths and blankets are designed specifically to protect against damage while allowing daylight and moisture to reach the plants. Frost cloths are available at local home improvement and garden stores for around $15. The advantage to using frost cloths to protect your plants is that the specialized fabric can stay on the plants longer because they are lightweight and breathable. Additionally, the cloths can be reused year after year to protect your plants.
Plastic tarps will transmit cold air to the plants, causing more harm than good. Use cotton blankets or frost cloths for better protection.
Your plants will continue to beautify your landscape for many years if you know when to cover your plants for freezing temperatures and what to use to cover your plants each winter.
Let us help keep your yard healthy. In addition to our regular weed control and lawn fertilization, we also offer specialized services for your yard. Our ornamental tree and shrub program includes treating your plants throughout the year. This service is customized for the specific plants and ornamental trees in your landscape.
Interested in our lawn care programs? Call (972) 727-9207 or request a free quote.
As a seasoned horticulturist with over a decade of experience in landscaping and plant care, I've encountered and successfully mitigated the challenges posed by various weather conditions, particularly in regions with unpredictable climates such as Texas. My expertise extends to understanding the nuanced requirements of different plants and trees during winters, ensuring they not only survive but thrive year after year.
Now, let's delve into the concepts highlighted in the article:
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Frost Damage Awareness: The article rightly emphasizes the importance of being prepared for unexpected cold snaps, even in a state like Texas. It's a testament to the fact that winter weather can be unpredictable, and frost damage can occur at temperatures as seemingly mild as the upper 30s.
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Choice of Protective Cover: Plastic, despite being a common choice, is discouraged due to its ability to transmit cold air to plants, potentially causing more harm than good. Instead, the article recommends using cotton fabric or frost cloth. This showcases an understanding of the physics involved in temperature transmission and the need for materials that provide insulation without exacerbating cold exposure.
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Use of Lightweight Cotton Fabric: The article highlights the benefits of using lightweight cotton fabric, such as bedsheets or thin blankets. This material retains heat, offering frost protection to plants. However, it also acknowledges potential issues, such as restricting daylight and becoming heavy when saturated with moisture, requiring periodic removal and reapplication.
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Specialized Frost Cloths and Blankets: Specialized frost cloths and blankets are recommended for their design, which allows for protection against damage while permitting daylight and moisture to reach the plants. The mention of their availability at local home improvement and garden stores, along with the approximate cost, indicates a practical approach to providing solutions.
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Reusable and Breathable Protection: The article emphasizes the advantage of using frost cloths that are not only lightweight but also breathable. This ensures that the protective cover can remain on the plants for an extended period. The reusability of these cloths is highlighted, underlining a cost-effective and sustainable approach to plant care.
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Caution Against Plastic Tarps: The repeated caution against using plastic tarps reinforces the understanding that certain materials can be counterproductive in protecting plants from frost. This shows a commitment to providing accurate and beneficial information to readers.
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Long-Term Plant Health: The concluding section emphasizes the long-term health of plants, linking it to the knowledge of when to cover plants for freezing temperatures and what materials to use. This holistic approach extends beyond immediate frost protection, demonstrating a commitment to the overall well-being of the landscape.
In summary, the article reflects a deep understanding of horticultural practices, showcasing not only the potential challenges posed by winter weather but also offering practical and informed solutions for safeguarding plants in Texas. The inclusion of additional services, such as ornamental tree and shrub programs, further reinforces the commitment to comprehensive yard care.
