Frost Advisory: Take Precautions to Protect Plants and Yourself

A frost advisory is issued when temperatures are expected to drop below 32°F (0°C) and cause frost to form on exposed surfaces. Frost can damage sensitive plants, so it's important to take precautions to protect them.

How Does Frost Form?

Frost forms when water vapor in the air condenses into ice crystals on cold surfaces. This process typically occurs on clear nights when there is little wind and the ground has cooled down significantly.

When to Expect Frost

Frost advisories are typically issued in the spring and fall when temperatures are more likely to fluctuate between freezing and non-freezing. However, frost can occur at any time of year if temperatures drop low enough.

Protecting Plants from Frost

There are several effective strategies you can use to protect your plants from frost:

• Cover plants with blankets or sheets. This is the most effective way to prevent frost from damaging your plants. Use breathable materials like old towels, blankets, or frost cloths, and secure them loosely around the plants.
• Use water to raise the temperature. Watering your plants can help to raise the temperature around them and prevent frost from forming. Water releases heat as it freezes, which can help to keep your plants warm.
• Create a windbreak. Wind can accelerate the rate of heat loss from your plants. Creating a windbreak by planting evergreen trees or shrubs around your garden can help to reduce wind speeds and protect your plants from frost.
• Move plants indoors. If you have potted plants, you can move them indoors to protect them from frost. Place them in a warm, sunny location where they will not be exposed to cold temperatures.

Protecting Yourself from Frost

In addition to protecting your plants, it's also important to take precautions to protect yourself from frost. Frostbite can occur when the skin is exposed to cold temperatures for too long. Here are some tips to help you stay safe:

• Dress warmly. Wear layers of loose, warm clothing, including a hat, gloves, and scarf.
• Cover exposed skin. Apply petroleum jelly or another barrier cream to exposed skin to help protect it from the cold.
• Avoid prolonged exposure to cold. If you must be outside for extended periods, take frequent breaks indoors to warm up.
• Be aware of the signs of frostbite. Frostbite can cause the skin to become pale, numb, or tingly. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Here are some common mistakes to avoid when trying to protect your plants from frost:

• Don't use plastic covers. Plastic covers can trap moisture and create an environment that is conducive to disease.
• Don't water your plants too late in the evening. Watering your plants too late in the evening can make them more susceptible to frost damage.
• Don't uncover your plants too early. Uncovering your plants too early can expose them to cold temperatures and damage them.

Stories and What We Learn

• A gardener who covered his plants with blankets during a frost advisory saved his entire crop. This story shows the importance of taking precautions to protect your plants from frost.
• A hiker who got lost in the mountains during a frost advisory developed frostbite on his fingers and toes. This story shows the importance of being aware of the signs of frostbite and taking precautions to protect yourself from the cold.
• A family who left their car windows open during a frost advisory had their windows freeze shut. This story shows the importance of taking precautions to protect your vehicle from frost.

Conclusion

Frost advisories are issued when temperatures are expected to drop below freezing and cause frost to form. It is important to take precautions to protect your plants and yourself from frost. By following the tips in this article, you can help to prevent frost damage and stay safe during cold weather.

Additional Information

Frost Advisory vs. Freeze Warning

A frost advisory is issued when temperatures are expected to drop between 32°F and 36°F (0°C and 2°C). A freeze warning is issued when temperatures are expected to drop below 32°F (0°C). Freeze warnings are more serious than frost advisories, and they indicate that there is a greater risk of widespread frost damage.

Average Frost Dates

The average frost dates for different locations can vary significantly. In general, areas in the northern United States and Canada experience frost earlier in the fall and later in the spring than areas in the southern United States and Canada.

Frost Damage to Plants

Frost can damage plants by freezing the water inside their cells. This can cause the cells to rupture and the plant to wilt and die. Frost damage is most likely to occur on young plants, tender plants, and plants that are not acclimated to cold temperatures.

Table 1: Average Frost Dates for Selected Cities

Table 2: Tips for Protecting Plants from Frost

Table 3: Common Mistakes to Avoid When Protecting Plants from Frost