The first frost of the autumn season is also known as the killing frost or the end of the growing season. Here are a few ways to protect your plants!

1) Water the soil underneath the plants really well. Water is much harder to heat/cool than the air (think about a pot of water, it’s quicker to heat/cool the air above the burner than heating/cooler the water). This works great if the air does not stay below freezing for a prolonged period of time.

2) Put straw, paper cups, sheets, blankets, or plastic sheets over the plants (not touching the plants if possible) to keep the temperature inside the protective covering a bit warmer.

3) Bring plants inside where they are not exposed to the freezing conditions.

4) Orchard heaters and wind machines are great if you have a lot of crops to protect. It can help to mix up the air such that the coldest air does not settle right at the ground.

There are many other ways you can help protect your plants! Either way, keep them safe and make sure to bundle up this evening!

~ Meteorologist Candice Boling

Pics/Info courtesy: plant-grow-bringing-outdoor-plants.html, primexgardencenter.com, www.designrulz.com, greenbeanconnection.wordpress.com, http://marinmg.ucanr.edu/