As the year comes to an end, the temperature in New Orleans can drop unexpectedly—often into the mid-thirties. This sudden chill might leave you wondering: Should I be covering my plants? Will my citrus trees survive? What steps should I take once the weather warms up again?
Don’t worry! We've got you covered with the essential steps to protect your landscape during winter and keep your plants healthy throughout the colder months.
How to Protect Your Plants During Frost
When the weather forecasts a frost, it’s time to take action. But what exactly should you do? Which plants need protection, and how should you go about covering them?
Two-Layer System for Frost Protection
The key to protecting plants from frost is using a two-layer system, and here’s how to do it:
First Layer: Fleece or Cloth Fabric
Start by covering the plant entirely with a fleece or cloth-type fabric. This creates a barrier that helps keep the plant warm while still allowing air to circulate.
Second Layer: Plastic Sheeting
Over the fleece, add a thicker plastic sheeting. This layer helps trap heat, creating a "greenhouse effect" that keeps the plant warmer. Secure both layers with twine or cord to ensure they stay in place.
Never allow the plastic to touch the plant directly. When plastic is in direct contact with foliage, it can cause the leaves to wilt. The fleece layer acts as a buffer between the plastic and your plant’s leaves.
What Materials Should You Use?
30 Mil Plastic Sheeting – This thick plastic helps trap heat while protecting your plants from frost.
Fleece Frost Blankets – These breathable covers allow air to circulate while still protecting against cold temperatures.
Heavy Twine or Cord – Secure your coverings with durable twine to prevent them from blowing away in the wind.
Tomato Stakes – These can help create air gaps around the plant, preventing the plastic from touching the foliage.
Which Plants Need to Be Covered?
In New Orleans, we have a unique climate that can shift from mild to freezing in a matter of hours. Some plants need extra protection to survive the cold snaps.
Citrus Trees – Protect your citrus trees if temperatures are expected to dip below 32°F.
European Olive Trees – These delicate trees need covering if temperatures fall below 18°F.
Tropical Plants – Gingers, irises, agapanthus, and tractor seat plants (like Colocasia) are all sensitive to frost.
Seasonal Color Plants – Petunias, alyssum, begonias, and other tender annuals should be covered during cold spells.
What Plants Do Not Need to Be Covered?
Fortunately, not all plants need protection from frost. Here are some that are more cold-hardy and can withstand the winter temperatures in New Orleans without any special care:
Azaleas, Camellias, and Gardenias – These hardy shrubs are well-suited to our winter climate.
Hawthorne Trees – Another cold-tolerant plant that doesn’t require covering.
Jasmine (Climbing & Groundcovers) – Jasmine varieties tend to handle cold weather well.
Liriopes and Mondo Grass – These tough groundcovers are resilient to winter weather.
Perennials – Many perennials, especially those adapted to our area, will survive without extra coverage.
Additional Care to Prevent Freeze Damage
Even with the right coverings, there are a few other steps you can take to help protect your landscape during a freeze:
Watering – While it may seem counterintuitive, watering your plants before a freeze can help prevent dehydration. Moist soil holds heat better than dry soil, which can help buffer your plants from the cold.
Mulching – Apply a thick layer of mulch around the base of your plants, especially around the roots. Mulch acts as an insulating blanket, protecting the roots from freezing temperatures.
Avoid Pruning After a Freeze – After a heavy freeze, don’t rush to prune your plants. Wait until the threat of frost has passed, as pruning can expose tender growth to further damage. Allow your plants time to recover naturally.
New Orleans’ winter weather can be unpredictable, but with the right preparation, you can protect your plants and keep your landscape thriving through the colder months. Remember: a little effort now can go a long way in ensuring that your garden looks beautiful when the temperatures warm up again.
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