GardenLife :: Sharon's 5 Tips to Winterize Your Plants

FREEZEPRUF™ – Dr. David Francko from the University of Alabama developed this revolutionary product to improve a plant’s cold tolerance by 2-9 degrees Fahrenheit, depending on the plant variety and the duration or intensity of a freeze event; contains two different compounds to protect a plant’s inner cells as well as its outer foliage and fruits; for optimum results, spray at least 8-12 hours before a predicted freeze or apply seasonally about every 4 weeks or every 2 weeks during periods of frequent heavy rain or snow

MULCH – Make sure plant roots are properly insulated from prolonged freezing temperatures by applying a 4-6 inch layer of mulch, leaving a space of 1-2 inches directly around the base of the trunk or main stem (excess moisture build-up could lead to rotting or disease problems around the base of the plant)

HELP WITH KELP – Research indicates that kelp plant food is a rich source of over 60 major and minor nutrients as well as amino acids and contains growth-promoting auxins, cytokines and gibberellins that help to thicken cell walls, increasing plant hardiness against frost

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS – Stringing lights around a plant is another way to increase the temperature by a couple of degrees and it looks festive too!

HORTICULTURAL BLANKETS – Reemay and other similar fabrics available at local garden centers insulates and keeps out weeds, but allows light to filter through to the plant (cotton sheets also help, but need to be removed during warmer daylight hours and if using plastic sheeting, make sure the plastic is on a support frame to make sure the plastic does not touch the plant)