No matter where you live, you're likely to face extreme weather phenomena from time to time. But while you can dodge into your office or home to take cover from the elements, your trees and plants are less lucky. Find out how to protect your plants from unusual weather and ensure that most of them survive the forces of nature.
Mulch
Mulch
serves a number of purposes besides giving the base of your flowerbeds an
attractive, uniform look. In addition to discouraging pests and keeping disease
at bay, it actually helps to insulate the soil and the plant's root system.
A few inches of mulch around the roots of your bushes,
trees, and other plants will help them stay cool during hot weather. Mulch also
insulates against the cold during fall and winter. Learn how to mulch your
flower beds with our instructional
Youtube video.
Plastic Covers
If you're expecting a frost to come in the night, take time
to cover your small plants with plastic grocery bags. Weight the edges of the
bags with small stones to prevent the bags from blowing away and becoming an
environmental hazard.
Instead of plastic covers or bags, you could use cardboard
boxes or large plastic flowerpots. When you cover the plants, they won't be
able to get any sunshine, so be sure not to use this protective method for
longer than a couple of days.
Old Blankets and
Burlap
For small trees and larger bushes, you can employ a wrap
made of old blankets or layers of burlap cloth. The thicker the blanket, the
more protective it offers against moderate or heavy frosts.
Inside Time
Some plants may simply not be able to handle the weather
conditions coming your way. In that case, consider temporarily re-homing those
plants indoors, especially if you have invested a lot of time or money in your
garden.
As you place the plants into pots, make sure that you don't
damage the root system. You'll need to place the plants in a climate-controlled
area where they have access to the appropriate amount of sunlight.
Soil Mounds
For certain plants, like roses, a bunker of earth can offer
protection against wind and cold. In the fall, before frosts come, create a
loose pile of soil
about a foot high around the base of each rosebush. In early spring, you can
gently remove the mounds of earth.
Stakes and Cages
If you're expecting high winds in your area, or if
wind-storms come through often, it's a good idea to stake some of your tender
plants. Hammer wooden stakes into the ground at intervals around the most
vulnerable plants, and create a wind barrier by wrapping burlap from stake to
stake to form a fence.
For taller plants or young trees, purchase or craft light
wooden cages that offer extra support against the force of the wind. You could
also establish a temporary or permanent windbreak to block wind from a
particular direction.
Remember, Kurtz Bros.,
Inc. is here to help you with all your landscaping needs. Call us if you need additional
supplies or advice for protecting your plants from unusual weather.