When Fall Turns to Frost: How to Protect Your Plants During Frost Advisories and Unpredictable Weather

As the chill of fall sets in, so do frost advisories—a familiar yet challenging time for Minnesota gardeners. While Minnesotans are accustomed to fluctuating temperatures, our plants often need extra protection when the mercury drops. To help you safeguard your garden, our experts at Copper Creek Greenhouse and Garden Center have compiled essential tips to keep your plants thriving even when frost is in the forecast.

1. Bring Plants Indoors

Potted Plants: If temperatures are predicted to dip below freezing, bring potted plants inside. Garages, porches, or spots near windows can offer sufficient protection against frost.

Tropical Plants: Particularly sensitive to cold, tropical plants should be moved indoors well before temperatures start to drop.

2. Cover Outdoor Plants

Use Covers: For outdoor plants that can’t be moved, use blankets, sheets, or burlap to cover them. Avoid plastic, as it can trap moisture and potentially freeze on the plants.

Secure the Covers: Ensure that covers reach the ground to trap warmth and secure them with rocks or stakes to prevent wind from displacing them.

Morning Removal: Once temperatures rise, remove the covers to prevent overheating and allow sunlight to reach the plants.

3. Water the Soil

Moist Soil Retains Heat: Watering the soil in the late afternoon or early evening can help retain heat, protecting plant roots. Be careful not to overwater or soak the plants directly.

4. Mulch Around Plants

Add Mulch: A thick layer of mulch—such as straw, hay, leaves, or bark—around the base of plants acts as an insulator, helping to retain soil warmth and protect roots.

5. Use Frost Cloth or Row Covers

Frost Cloths: Designed to shield plants from light frosts, frost cloths are lightweight and can remain on plants longer than regular fabric. They allow light in while providing insulation.

6. Relocate Tender Plants

Moving Plants: Frequent frost? Move tender plants like tomatoes, peppers, and basil to warmer spots in your yard, such as near south-facing walls or under tree canopies, where microclimates offer added warmth.

7. Harvest Early

Pick Ripe Produce: Harvest sensitive vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, and peppers before frost arrives. Many of these veggies can continue to ripen indoors.

8. Know Your Frost-Hardy Plants

Cool-Weather Champions: Plants such as kale, spinach, cabbage, and pansies can handle light frosts and thrive in cooler conditions, easing your worries when frost strikes.

9. Post-Frost Care

Assess Damage: After a frost, inspect your plants for damage. Remove any dead or damaged leaves to prevent disease.

Revive Plants: Some frost-bitten plants may recover with time and care, so don’t give up hope too soon!

In Minnesota, frost can sneak up unexpectedly, so staying alert to weather forecasts and having a plan in place can make all the difference for your garden. For more frost protection tips, products, and expert advice, visit the Garden Center at Copper Creek in Nisswa. Keep your garden flourishing all season long with the help of Copper Creek!