How to Safeguard Your Garden From Frost This Fall and Winter

As temperatures begin to drop, gardeners everywhere start preparing for the challenges of frost. A sudden freeze can damage plants, stunt growth, and undo months of hard work. Learning how to protect your garden during fall and winter is essential to keeping it vibrant and healthy year after year. Beyond maintaining beauty, your garden also adds real value to your property—according to Plant Care Today, a well-tended garden can enhance the aesthetic appeal of your property, potentially boosting its resale value by as much as 14%. With a few preventative steps and some helpful frost facts, you can safeguard your plants and ensure they come back strong in the spring.

Understand the Frost Facts

Before taking action, it’s important to know when frost is most likely to occur. Frost typically forms on clear, calm nights when the temperature drops below 36°F. Even light frost can damage delicate plants, so knowing your local frost dates helps you plan ahead. Covering plants or moving containers indoors before temperatures dip below freezing is one of the simplest ways to prevent damage. Understanding these frost facts gives you an advantage in protecting your garden throughout the colder months.

Cover Your Plants Properly

One of the best ways to guard against frost is to provide physical protection. Use materials like burlap, old sheets, or frost blankets to trap warmth and shield plants from cold air. Be sure to secure coverings so they don’t blow away and avoid using plastic directly on leaves, as it can cause them to freeze. Remove covers during the day when temperatures rise to allow sunlight and airflow. This routine ensures your plants stay warm without suffocating.

Water and Mulch Before a Freeze

Moist soil retains heat better than dry soil, which can help protect plant roots during sudden cold spells. Water your garden thoroughly before a predicted frost, but avoid overwatering. Adding a layer of mulch around the base of your plants provides extra insulation, keeping roots stable and preventing the soil from freezing too quickly. Mulch also helps maintain moisture levels during dry winter months.

Taking the time to safeguard your garden from frost ensures your plants stay strong, your landscape stays beautiful, and your investment continues to grow. For expert advice, high-quality plants, and reliable gardening supplies, visit Schwartz’s Greenhouse—your trusted local source for year-round garden care and protection.