The days are still nice, but as the night temperatures fall it is time to think about frost protection for some of your plants. If you are unsure which plants need protection, check Sunset Western Garden Book or come into Orchard and consult with our Certified Nursery Professionals.

Frost-tender plants that are in pots can be pulled back close to the house under an overhang. The south side of your house is the warmest, and the north side is the coldest. The west side is warmer than the east. House walls give off more heat than walls of an unheated garage, and fences give little protection at all.

The very best spot for tender plants would be under an overhang next to a large window or sliding glass door. Most of the heat lost from our houses escapes via the windows. This is bad news for our heating bills but good news for tender plants.

Frost falls almost straight down. This means that plants back under a solid overhang are protected. Boston ferns hung at the edge will often be burned on the outside but fine on the inside. The same will happen to jade plants that are not tucked in far enough. If you have no porches, putting the plants under a dense evergreen tree will often be enough.

Plants that are planted in the ground obviously cannot be moved. However, they can be covered. Purchase a product called “Frost Cloth” or in an emergency, cover with a light-weight sheet. For longer term protection, build a frame and cover it with clear plastic. If the plant is particularly tender, get an extension cord and rig a light in the enclosure. Put it on a timer so it turns on every night without fail.

As the nights turn frosty, there are lots of ways to protect your plants, but please think about it before they get hurt, not the day after!