We usually appreciate the changing seasons, but when chilling temperatures arrive, we tend to enjoy them best from the comfort of our warm homes. (To ensure your home stays nice and warm this winter, give our friends at Aire Serv a call!) However, our plants can’t simply turn up the heat outdoors. Do you know how to best protect them from the elements in this season?

How Cold is Too Cold?

Cold weather can be dangerous to the health of our plants, but how cold is too cold? This is a tough question to answer – dangerous temperatures vary depending on the type of plant. Plants and flowers have “hardiness” ratings that indicate how well they’ll stand against the elements. Use hardiness ratings as a guideline when purchasing plants to ensure they’ll thrive in your yard.

Protect Your Plants

Though you can’t crank up the heat in your backyard, there are steps you can take to protect your plants when they’re stuck outdoors. Check out these possible solutions:

• Sheets/blankets – This covering type is classic. Sheets and blankets act as insulation for your plants. If you feel more protection is needed, you can add plastic on top of the covering. However, it’s important to remove it promptly in the morning. The condensation under the covering will freeze and will detriment your plants if the covering is not removed.
• Anti-transpirant – This invisible anti-polymer film can protect plants up to three months.
• Mulch – Just like sheets and blankets act as insulation, adding more mulch will help keep warmth close to the roots.
• Heat source – For ultimate protection and “plant pampering,” create a makeshift greenhouse with a space heater!

Potted Particulars

Check out these tips for your potted plants!

• When you plant your flowers in pots, the bigger the better. Small containers freeze faster than larger ones, so if you set up camp in a larger pot, you’ll be better set for winter.
• When in doubt, plant early! When roots have more time to mature, they’ll stand better in cold weather.
• When possible, bring your potted plants indoors! This will ensure more sensitive plants have a controlled-temperature environment.

Plants to Grow in Winter

Looking to add a little color to your winter scenery? These plants do well in the wintertime. It’s a good idea to complete additional research to ensure these plants and flowers will grow well in your area.

• Camellia
• Winterberry Holly
• Firethorn
• Ornamental Cabbage/Kale
• Winter Jasmine
• Pansy
• English Primrose
• Sweet Pea
• Winter Honeysuckle
• Calendula

Plants are stronger and more resilient than you might expect! However, with a little extra help, your plants can thrive this winter. For more holiday tips and tricks, visit our Neighborly Expert Tips page.