PROTECT PLANTS AGAINST FROST

Position
In winter, the location of frost-sensitive plants is important. Plants that are barely sheltered have a harder time than plants that are out of the wind (for example, in the city). It also gets much colder in the east of our country than in the coastal provinces. But not only the cold can damage the plants, also a heavy rainfall can harm them.

Frost sensitive plants
Frost-sensitive plants are perennials that die at frost. The temperature at which this happens varies from plant to plant. Preferably put them in pots and let them hibernate cool on the porch or in the greenhouse. Plants that are sensitive to frost usually die not from the cold, but from wet feet. If you do leave them, make sure they are in a well-drained spot. Many frost sensitive plants can stand a few degrees of frost, because it often freezes in the country of origin. In case of severe frost, these plants really need to go inside, to the shed, garage, unheated room or corridor.

Evergreen plants
If it not only freezes at night, but also during the day, evergreens need to be protected. Evergreen plants are not at rest in the winter. If it freezes heavily at night and the sun shines during the day, the leaves can dry out and even burn. It is best to place some fleece, an old rag or towel over the leaves to protect the plant from the sunlight. Alpine plants and prickly pear (Acaena) are evergreen but also prone to frost. During severe frosts (around -10°C), cover the leaves with some pine branches, a layer of coarse compost or straw to protect them.

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