Winterization here in Florida is usually less about surviving extreme cold (since we typically have mild winters) and more about preparing for occasional cold snaps and fluctuating temperatures. Some strategies will help your plants thrive through the cooler months, especially in Central or North Florida where freezes are more likely.
1. Protect from Cold Snaps
- Cover Plants with Frost Cloth or Blankets: Use frost cloth, burlap, or old sheets to cover sensitive plants, especially tropical or heat-loving varieties. Make sure the covering doesn’t touch the foliage, as it can trap moisture and cause damage. A frame or hoop can help keep covers elevated.
- Water Plants Before a Freeze: Watering in the late afternoon or evening before a freeze helps to keep the soil temperature a bit warmer, reducing the risk of frost damage. Don’t water during the freeze itself, as this can cause ice to form.
- Use Row Covers or Cold Frames: These can help protect vegetable gardens or young plants. A cold frame acts like a mini-greenhouse and can extend your growing season.
2. Bring Potted Plants Indoors
For tropical or frost-sensitive plants, consider moving pots inside. If you don’t have the space, move them to a sheltered, warmer area like a porch or garage that is well-lit.
3. Mulch Heavily
Apply a thick layer of mulch (around 3–4 inches) around the base of plants, especially if you’re concerned about roots getting too cold. This helps maintain consistent soil temperatures and prevents the roots from freezing. It also conserves moisture during the winter.
4. Prune Wisely
Avoid heavy pruning just before winter, as it can stimulate new growth that will be vulnerable to cold. Instead, wait until spring. For plants that are frost-sensitive, prune dead or damaged foliage after the cold weather passes.
5. Protect Citrus Trees
Citrus trees are sensitive to cold.
- Wrap Young Citrus Trees: Use burlap, frost cloth, or even Christmas lights (non-LED) wrapped around the tree to provide extra warmth during freezes.
- Use Heat Lamps or Space Heaters: For very sensitive citrus, a string of incandescent lights (the old-fashioned kind) or a space heater in a temporary enclosure can help to keep the temperature up.
6. Move Tropicals to a Sheltered Spot
Plants like hibiscus, bougainvillea, and other tropicals may not survive a hard freeze. Move them to a more protected location if possible, such as near a building or under a large tree for natural warmth.
7. Avoid Over-fertilizing
Winter’s cooler temperatures naturally slow down plant growth. Avoid fertilizing late in the fall or winter, as it can encourage tender, vulnerable new growth that could be damaged by a frost.
8. Monitor Cold Advisories
Stay alert for cold advisories, especially in the northern half of the state. Cold weather usually happens overnight, so keeping an eye on the forecast can help you stay one step ahead. Know when your area is projected to have first frosts (if applicable) using reliable sources such as the farmers almanac.
9. Wind Protection
Cold winds can be particularly damaging to plants during winter. Use windbreaks like fences, trellises, or temporary barriers (for example, hay bales) to protect more delicate plants from the chill and drying winds.
11. Consider Cold-Hardy Varieties
If you live in a zone with occasional cold snaps (like Zone 9 or lower), consider switching to more cold-hardy plant varieties. Many flowering perennials and shrubs can handle a mild winter, and many are more resistant to temperature fluctuations.
12. Monitor Watering
The cooler weather and occasional rains reduce the need for watering. Be mindful not to overwater your plants, as excess moisture can encourage mold, mildew, or root rot, especially when temperatures drop.
By taking these winterization steps, you can ensure your plants are protected from any unexpected frost while still thriving during cooler months. If you have any questions, feel free to give us a call at (352)735-8350.