How Freezing Temps Affect Your Garden

Are you an avid gardener? Even if you’re just starting out, the cold weather of the winter season can put a damper on your efforts. This is especially true in the south where plants are used to warm, generally humid weather. 

Cold weather freezes the cells of plants, which causes damage and halts the pathways for water and nutrients to flow through. Freeze damage tends to occur if temperatures drop into the 20s or teens (Fahrenheit). If you have perennials that are well-established, they have a chance of survival when the weather begins to warm up again. However, if they are severely damaged, good care such as weekly watering even in dry weather could help them recover. 

Signs of freeze damage in plants may include shriveling or browning of damaged tissue and the plant becomes limp. You may also notice leaves breaking off. Watering during dry periods and continued care will give your plants a chance at survival, so stay on top of care routines. 

You may also experience light frost in the winter, but shelter, insulation and warm air will help them survive the frost and freeze. Setting your plants in elevated areas, such as raised garden beds, that keep frost pockets away could prevent damage. However, the soil dries out quicker in raised beds so it is important to adjust watering schedules accordingly. 

Another effective way to protect plants is to use hot compost to warm the soil up. It will aid in insulating the plants and could boost their growth. 

To be best protected against the cold when it comes to gardening, it is important to know your plant hardiness zone and choose plants accordingly. These zones will take into account sun exposure, temperature and other factors that will help you succeed in your gardening efforts year-round. You can view the hardiness zones and best plants for the area here.