Sacramento Gardening Experts Share Tips On Protecting Plants In Cold Weather

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) - Now is the time to start protecting those outside plants and gardens to keep the foliage from folding under this cold snap.

When it comes to protecting your outdoor plants from the winter months there are some definite dos and don'ts to help ensure you save them and continue to see green.

"We're kind of caught off guard. This freeze is coming really fast. We're not ready, so we've got to prepare quickly," said Robyn Conley, Green Acres Nursery & Supply.

Calling all green thumbs, if you have ferns, tropical, citrus, cacti, vegetable gardens, or even Christmas trees outside, all of your hard work and pricey plants could be in jeopardy of snapping as the valley prepares for some seasonable weather.

Fortunately, Conley has some ways to help keep your plants from feeling frostbitten.

"Do water your plants. It will provide an insulating effect to the roots of the plants."

Second, cover your plants with a frost cloth. One sheet protects an entire vegetable garden at Green Acres and costs about $12.

"Frost cloth is designed to provide sunlight, airflow and water penetration," said Conley.

Lastly, spray wilt stop on the plant. An entire bottle costs about $10, and is much cheaper than replacing a $75 mandarin citrus tree.

But not everything has to brave the elements.

"If you have any of these in pots, you can move them under a porch or into the garage for the duration of the freeze," said Conley.

However, you should avoid bringing them inside because it will take too long for plants to adjust to climate and temperature changes.

Some plants, such as azaleas, violas and pansies, can hold up in the winter elements without any protection.

Experts also advice, avoid pruning your plants until spring if they suffer some weather damage.