A Guide to Protecting Your Plants Over Winter

Each spring l am surprised by which plants have suffered or died over the winter, especially as winters seem to be getting colder, wetter and longer. Upon investigation these plants have been labeled as needing frost protection.

We can forgive ourselves as often plants can weather winters for several years without issue and then we get that one bad year.

Which plants should l protect?

From my experience, the following plants have suffered over the years in our client gardens as a result of a bad winter;

Tree Ferns, Star Jasmine, Agapanthus, Caenothus, Cordyline, Phormium, Canna Lilly, Banana, Olives, Dahlias and Fushias.

Warning: This is not an exhaustive list, you should check on all the plants in your garden.

How do l protect my plants?

It is not just the frost that can affect the plants, chilled winds, hail and snow will have an impact. To protect your plants you can use the following methods.

• Plants in pots can be relocated to a sheltered corner or a greenhouse that has cold weather protection added.

• Dahlias tubers can be lifted, cleaned and stored in a dry box with compost in a garage over winter then replanted in the spring.

• The common method is to wrap vulnerable plants in Fleece Frost Protection.

Which Fleece Frost Protection should l use?

Heavy duty 30gsm Fleece Frost Protection protect plants down to temperatures around -3oC

Note: we think this is the best option.

Standard duty 17gsm Fleece Frost Protection protect plants down to temperatures around 0oC.

Note: we think this is a little light weight.

Super duty 70gsm Fleece Frost Protection protect plants down to temperatures around -5oC.

Note: for very cold winters and protection in your greenhouse.

Disclaimer: this guide gives general advice for protecting your plants through winter. This guide does not guarantee that following these instructions will not result in any lose or damage. We recommend that you carry out your own research and make appropriate decisions. We are not liable for any damage or losses sustained by following this advice.