Here in the desert of the Southwest, we are not used to and often unprepared when the temperature drops below freezing. This is especially true when it comes to protecting our plants and trees from a freeze. It seems that each winter is just a little bit different from the last and keeps us guessing on which direction the temperature is heading.
There are certain techniques we can use to protect plants when we know a freeze is coming. We can cover them with sheets of cotton or burlap or carefully wrap the roots to prevent frozen roots. These methods can work great when we have ample warning that a freeze is upon us. Unfortunately, there are times when a freeze can sneak up on us giving us no time to prepare.
Things To Consider
So what can you do if your plant has been frozen? Can these frozen plants survive? Can they be revived? It often depends on what type of plant it is and how bad the freeze was.
Some experts would argue that once a plant has been through a freeze, it’s game over. They say it is too late to do anything to revive the frozen plants. Others disagree pointing to first hand experience with reviving a plant after a freeze.
Don’t React Too Quickly
The best thing to do is wait and see. Plants and other vegetation are amazing when it comes to survival. Even when they look their worse, there is still life in them fighting for a comeback. In many cases, even though the outer leaves of the plant may seem dead, there may still be life in the roots and branches of the plant.
The worse thing you can do is react too quickly. Some people immediately dig the plant up or begin trimming damaged leaves and branches. The problem with trimming is that it actually promotes growth so it is better to wait until the end of winter to prevent further damage.
Water Them For Regrowth
If your frozen plants appear dead there are a couple of important things you can do to help revive them. First, keep watering your frozen plants. Water is essential for any plant to remain healthy year round. You might also try adding an enhancer to the plant. This can sometimes trick the plant into re-growing.
Remember to wait. Give your plants at least another 2 weeks or so to see what happens. Keep covering them when appropriate and do the things you would normally do to help them survive.
Do You Have Frozen Plants?
If you have tried everything you can think of and still do not see the results you would like, give ABC Scapes a call at 602-404-0568. We are happy to come and take a closer look at your plants and give you our professional opinion.