How do I protect my plants from the cold of winter?

In autumn, temperatures begin to drop, and then winter arrives, bringing with it very low temperatures and even a much lower wind chill factor. Just as the cold affects humans and animals, it also impacts plants, which are living beings and have certain limitations when it comes to their living conditions.

For this reason, we recommend that during this season of low temperatures, you do not neglect to protect your plants, especially those considered more delicate, the younger ones, and those that have recently been planted, as they are the ones that will not be able to withstand the cold temperatures without suffering damage, sometimes irreparable. "How do I care for my plants against the winter cold?" was certainly the question that brought you to this article, so keep reading to learn how to protect your plants from the cold..

recommendations for caring for plants during the cold

For those of us who love plants and want to protect them from the adversities that may arise, we know that cold weather can pose a threat to our plants, as extremely low temperatures can damage them.

There are various ways and methods to protect plants; from covers, fleece wraps, and plant cloaks to greenhouses that can be put on and taken off. It is advised not to remove the snow from the pot or the soil, as it helps the roots withstand lower temperatures.

Below are some recommendations to keep in mind for caring for our plants when the cold sets in:

1. Gradually reduce watering so that the plants can acclimatise to the lower temperatures. Only water as necessary to avoid water accumulation or excess moisture, which can cause the plants to rot.
2. Move the plants closer to the windows, as they need more light during winter. It is also recommended to take them outside occasionally, but infrequently, as constant changes in location can cause them stress.
3. Place pots near walls or among other plants to provide additional protection. You can also place pots on wooden boards to avoid contact with damp soil.
4. Clean off dead leaves and flowers to prevent the proliferation of fungi on the plant.
5. Prune dead or dry branches in winter, as the plants' metabolism slows down and they lose less sap.
6. Transplant your plant if the pot has become too small, as the cold season is an appropriate time to carry out this activity.

options to protect your plants from the cold

Nowadays, there are items that help us aid our plants in withstanding very low temperatures. These items include removable greenhouses and fleece covers or hibernation blankets. Below, these items will be described along with how to use them.

portable greenhouses

This item is used for delicate herbaceous plants, seedlings, or some citrus plants. It is recommended, for example, to place them in a small storage area, but ideally, they should be kept in a greenhouse.

As of today, there are various types of small-scale greenhouses available, even suitable for use on a terrace or balcony once the very low temperatures have passed. The structure of these greenhouses typically features iron or steel with shelves for placing pots and a transparent cover with zips at each end of one side to facilitate access.

hibernation covers and blankets

In addition to elements that were used in the past, there is now this renewed item consisting of a winter cloak or cover that comes in various sizes and is considered very comfortable and easy to use. They are made from lightweight, water- and air-permeable fabrics that mitigate the effects of cold. By allowing light to penetrate, they create a greenhouse effect that provides warmth to the plants.

The winter cloak consists of a lightweight material that helps maintain the optimal temperature around the trunk, leaves, and roots of the potted plant. Additionally, it retains moisture, prevents dryness, and allows the plant to breathe.

On the other hand, there is the winter cover designed to protect potted plants or those planted in the ground. It is recommended that this cover be placed before snow or frost occurs, when the temperature begins to drop below 4 degrees Celsius. The moisture that the plant may lack is absorbed from the environment by the cover and gradually released to the plant. For small trees (up to 2.5 metres), protective nets and covers against cold and wind are also used.

bring potted outdoor plants inside

For outdoor potted plants or planters, consider bringing them indoors or to a sheltered area (such as a garage or shed) during the colder months. Place them near a bright window to ensure they receive enough light.

In particular, citrus trees are sensitive to the cold and require special attention in cooler climates. If you have a potted citrus tree, it is essential to protect it from frost. Bring it indoors when temperatures begin to drop, especially if frost is predicted. Make sure that the place where you position it receives good sunlight.

Additionally, you can use grow lights if there isn't sufficient natural light. It’s also advisable to monitor watering, as during the colder months, plants generally require less water. Ensure that the substrate drains well to avoid waterlogging, which can affect the roots of citrus trees. With the proper care, your plants will be well protected and can thrive even during winter.

visit the florespaña webshop!

After reading this entire article, we invite you to visit our website www.florespana.es, where you can immerse yourself in an online nursery experience. In addition to finding a wide variety of plant species, you will also discover a wealth of information about the world of plants. Just like this article, we have several more articles in the blog section of the website.