Here in the UK, we are currently experiencing the coldest snap for the past 30 years. In recent times, we have been spoilt by very mild winters, but what are the effects of snow, frost and very low temperatures on our garden plants?
Frost will cause the water within plant cells to freeze, which in turn expands and damages cell walls. This can cause even the hardiest of plants to look limp and blackened. These effects can be compounded by rapid thawing as a result of being exposed to the warmth of the sun.
If the soil around your plants starts to freeze, the ability of roots to draw up water becomes limited, which can result in your plants simply drying up.
Protecting your plants against the cold
- Don’t over feed your plants during winter: This will cause too much soft growth which is more susceptible to frost and snow damage.
- Be on guard against the soil around roots freezing for prolonged periods: Ensure that there is plenty of thick mulch in and around the base of your plants.
- Keep less-hardy plants in pots and planters that can be brought in to a frost free environment during the coldest snaps.
- If you can get hold of any, pack untreated sheep’s wool or garden fleece around the crowns of plants at most risk, such as palms, cordylines and ferns.
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