SAN ANTONIO – Meteorologists at KSAT forecast a cold front coming in this week with an average low temperature of 43 degrees.
Here are some tips to keep your plants safe during the cooler times of the year.
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KSAT spoke with Mary Broemer, who works at a plant nursery, Milberger Nursey, in San Antonio, to find the answers.
Tips for protection
“If [your plants are] tropical and/or in pots, move them to a warmer area, like inside a garage. If they’re too big or in the ground, you’re going to want to use a frost blanket,” Broemer said. “These only warm up to six degrees, so make sure to double or triple up.”
Which frost blanket is the best?
“I recommend tenting the blanket, not tucking it. Make sure to secure the blanket,” Broemer said. “The brands I recommend are the Planket and Insulate. You can find these at nurseries everywhere. Old blankets during a dry cold can work.”
Broemer also recommended using a plastic tarp to cover, but make sure it does not touch the plant.
Even using an incandescent bulb under the blanket would help insulate the heat, Broemer said.
“[Bulb] like halogen bulbs are best, especially when using a plastic or tarp to cover your plants. I saved one of my palm trees this way during a winter storm,” Broemer said.
Water
The best time to water your plants is two days before the cold front.
“This stores warmth and humidity better. Foundation shrubs don’t need to be covered, only specialty plants like hibiscus,” Broemer said.
If your plants get damaged after the freeze, there may be hope to revive them.
“Depends on the variety of plant and extent of the damage. Some tropical plants, what I call “canes” that grow from one stem, can bounce back pretty easily as long as the base is ok. But it depends,” Broemer said.
As it gets colder, stay warm and save your plants! Be sure to share your pictures and videos with us on KSAT Connect to be featured on KSAT.com.
