Protecting Plants from Frost: Covers, Mulch & Timing

Cooler nights are here, and with them comes the risk of early frost. A single cold snap can damage tender plants or undo weeks of hard work in the garden. The good news? With a little preparation, you can protect your plants and keep your garden thriving well into fall.

Know When Frost is Coming

Frost can strike suddenly, even when daytime temperatures are still comfortable. Keep an eye on local forecasts and watch for nights predicted to dip below 36°F. Cold air settles in low spots, so gardens in valleys or shaded areas are especially vulnerable.

Use Covers to Shield Plants

Lightweight fabric, frost blankets, or even old sheets make excellent plant protectors. Drape them loosely over plants in the evening before a frost, making sure the cover extends to the ground to trap warmth. Remove them in the morning once temperatures rise.

Pro Tip: For shrubs or larger perennials, use stakes to hold the cover off foliage and prevent breakage. Redwood carries frost protection fabric and garden staples to make setup easy.

Mulch to Hold Warmth

Adding a layer of mulch around the base of plants helps insulate roots and moderate soil temperature. Shredded leaves, straw, or bark mulch all work well. Espoma Organic Land & Sea or Coast of Maine’s natural mulches are excellent options available here at Redwood Nursery.

Timing is Everything

Not all plants need protection all the time. Annuals and tender vegetables (like peppers and tomatoes) are most at risk in early frosts, while hardy perennials and shrubs can usually withstand light freezes. Protect selectively, saving effort and supplies for the plants that need it most.

FAQ

Q: Can I use plastic as a frost cover?
A: Plastic can trap moisture and cause more harm than good if it touches foliage. Use fabric instead, or place plastic over a frame to keep it off the plants.

Q: When should I stop covering plants?
A: Once nighttime temperatures consistently drop below freezing, tender annuals are done for the season. Focus your protection efforts on perennials, shrubs, and young trees.

Quick Takeaway

By watching the weather, covering tender plants, and mulching well, you can extend your growing season and protect your garden from unexpected frosts.

🌱 Local Tip from Redwood Nursery
Here in Southeastern Massachusetts, frost often arrives suddenly in October. Stock up now on frost covers, Espoma mulch, and Proven Winners® hardy plants so you’re ready when the first cold night comes.

👉 Download the Redwood Nursery App for timely frost alerts, seasonal tips, and special offers. Plus, ask us about our Redwood Direct program for hard-to-find plants shipped right to your door.