It’s officially the time of year to dust off your winter jacket and brave the Florida cold. But, what about your plants? 

As a plant owner, it may be time to find some spare blankets or sheets to help your green neighbors through the night. Protecting your plants with cover can help keep them a whole 10 degrees warmer, allowing them to survive through intense freezes. Avoid plastic coverings though –they prevent sunlight, water flow and air from reaching the plant. 

Before the Freeze 

Florida is home to many tropical plants, which may experience dangerous conditions for their survival during colder winter months. So, what should you do to help your plants before a freeze occurs? 

Choosing a good spot for your plant before putting it in the ground is important. Ensure it is out of a breezeway or an area of low ground, as colder air will sink there more. Also, watering your plants and promoting their overall health is a recommended strategy for fighting freezes. The healthier your plants are, the more resilient they are against foreign temperatures.  

Plants to Watch 

Examples of plants to cover during a frost include citrus, fuchsia, bougainvillea, succulents, salvia, hibiscus, jasmine, tree ferns and penstemon.  

After a Freeze 

Return any plants you may have moved under cover or in your garage back outside to receive sunlight. Uncover any blankets or protection you may have placed over your plants to let them warm back up with increased sun exposure.

Then, water your plants immediately and make sure they are healthy. Trimming dead leaves or branches can help restore your plant back to full health.

Information from UF IFAS and the Canterbury Farm Nursery