Source: Wikimedia Commons.
The Farmer’s Almanac projected frost in Kansas City by October 28th; here are some essential tips to avoid cold weather damage to your garden:
- Cover your plants with old burlap sacks or sheets, draped loosely and secured with bricks, rocks, or stakes. Do this before sunset to keep them warm, and remove covers in the morning to avoid suffocation.
- Lightly water your beds in the evening before the temperature drops, a day or two before the anticipated frost. Wet soil retains heat. Don’t saturate your plants, or they might be injured by frost heave.
- Mulch your plants. Research each species to determine if they’re better off covered. Use bark, pine needles, straw, or loose leaves with a depth of two to three inches.
- Cold frames are best for tender plants. Buy them or construct your own with brick, cinder blocks, or wood sides and old storm windows for the tops. Hoop houses, or mini greenhouses, are perfect for protecting vegetables.
- Raised bed designs also thwart the frost; cold air collects and remains in sunken or low areas, and raised beds make it easier to cover the plants.
Rosehill Gardens has specialized in plant care for 100 years. Contact us with all of your questions at (816) 941-4777.