Quick Answer
To protect outdoor plants from hard freeze, bring plants indoors, cover them with breathable blankets or sheets, and apply a layer of mulch or straw to insulate the soil. Drain and disconnect hoses from outdoor faucets, and drain pipes to prevent freezing. Consider investing in frost blankets if you have sensitive plants.
Protecting Plants
Before a hard freeze, bring sensitive plants indoors to a protected area with consistent temperatures between 40°F and 50°F (4°C and 10°C). If moving plants is not feasible, cover them with breathable blankets or sheets to prevent wind damage and retain heat. Use stakes or weights to secure the covers, ensuring they do not come into contact with the plants.
Preparing Infrastructure
Disconnect and drain hoses from outdoor faucets to prevent water from freezing in the lines. Open outdoor faucets to allow water to drain, then turn them off to prevent backflow. Consider installing freeze-proof faucets or frost-protected pipes if you live in an area with frequent hard freezes. Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like garages, basements, or crawlspaces with foam pipe insulation or heat tape.
Mulching and Soil Protection
Apply a 2-3 inch (5-7.5 cm) layer of organic mulch or straw to insulate the soil around plants. This helps retain heat and protect the soil from freezing temperatures. Avoid using plastic or metal mulch, as they can conduct cold temperatures and cause more harm. Keep the mulch layer away from plant stems and bases to prevent rot and disease.
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