4 Tips to Protect Your Lawn From Frost
Winter is often associated with snow, freezing temperatures, and bundling up. In Middle Tennessee, we don’t often see snow, and we’re fortunate to have temps that aren’t as low as some parts of the country. However, that doesn’t mean we’re immune to frost.
Frost can easily damage your home’s landscaping and garden if you’re not careful. As the water turns into ice crystals, it disrupts any fluid movement and damages the plant tissue.
We’ve already seen a few frosty mornings here in Nashville. Before the frigid winter weather becomes the norm, you’ll want to make sure your plants are protected from the elements. Here are four simple ways to shield them from freezing conditions.
1. Bring Plants Inside
This is one of the easiest steps you can take. Do you have any potted or hanging plants? Bring them inside and place them in a garage, sunroom, or living space. No matter where you place them, just make sure they get enough sunlight and water all winter long.
Note: Inspect your potted plants for any pests before bringing them indoors.
2. Add a Layer of Mulch
Bundling up isn’t just for humans (or owners of small animals!). Adding an extra layer of mulch insulates your plants from the cold.
Use straw, wood chips, hay, or leaves and create a protective layer of mulch that’s 2-3 inches thick. Leave about an inch or two open around the stem so the heat can still travel up from the roots. And when the weather does warm back up, remove that extra layer to prevent your plants from overheating.
3. Water the Soil
In the warmest parts of the day, watering the soil can create another layer of insulation since moist soil holds heat better than dry soil. Even though it seems counterintuitive to water it, the heat will radiate upward through the night and protect the roots from any cold snaps.
Note: the best time to water in the winter is mid-day since the sun is at its highest.
4. Wrap Your Trees
Young trees are the most susceptible to frost damage. A simple way to ensure the growth of the buds, blossoms, and branch aren’t stunted, consider protecting the trees with wrapping. You can use:
- Towels
- Burlap
- Protector wraps
- Blankets
- Cardboard
- And more
Start at the base of the trunk and wrap around, making sure you overlap layers by a few inches. Do this until you reach the lowest branches. Secure with twine or weatherproof tape.
It’s no secret weather can be unpredictable here in Nashville. That means it’s necessary to prep your landscaping for any type of condition so your plants can stay healthy all year long. And don’t neglect your plants!
Thinking ahead to your lawn care plans for 2022 and looking for a lawn of Great Green Grass? Give the lawn care professionals at Pure Green a call or get a free quote today.