Protect Your Plants from a Frost Advisory

A frost advisory is issued when temperatures are expected to drop below 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius) and there is enough moisture in the air to form frost. Frost can damage or kill plants, so it's important to take precautions to protect them.

What is frost?

Frost is a thin layer of ice crystals that forms on the ground and other surfaces when the temperature drops below the freezing point of water. Frost can occur when there is enough moisture in the air to condense into ice crystals and when the temperature is cold enough to freeze the water vapor.

What plants are most susceptible to frost?

All plants are susceptible to frost damage, but some are more vulnerable than others. Tender plants, such as annuals, vegetables, and newly transplanted plants, are most susceptible to frost damage. Woody plants, such as trees, shrubs, and perennials, are more tolerant of frost, but they can still be damaged if the temperature drops too low.

How can I protect my plants from frost?

There are a number of things you can do to protect your plants from frost, including:

• Cover your plants. Covering your plants with blankets, sheets, or tarps can help to insulate them and protect them from the cold.
• Water your plants. Watering your plants deeply before a frost can help to moisten the soil and provide some protection from the cold.
• Move your plants indoors. If possible, move your tender plants indoors to a warm place until the frost has passed.
• Use a frost cloth or blanket. A frost cloth or blanket is a specially designed fabric that can be placed over plants to protect them from the cold.

What should I do if my plants are damaged by frost?

If your plants are damaged by frost, there are a few things you can do to help them recover:

• Remove damaged leaves. Remove any leaves that have been damaged by frost.
• Water your plants. Water your plants deeply to help them recover from the stress of the frost.
• Fertilize your plants. Fertilizing your plants can help them to recover from the damage and promote new growth.
• Replant damaged plants. If your plants are severely damaged, you may need to replant them.

Additional tips

• Be prepared. Monitor the weather forecast and be prepared to take action if a frost advisory is issued.
• Don't overwater. Overwatering your plants can make them more susceptible to frost damage.
• Avoid using chemicals. Using chemicals to protect your plants from frost can be harmful to the environment and to your plants.
• Be patient. It may take some time for your plants to recover from frost damage.

Frost Advisory FAQ

Q: What is the difference between a frost advisory and a freeze warning?

A: A frost advisory is issued when temperatures are expected to drop below 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius). A freeze warning is issued when temperatures are expected to drop below 28 degrees Fahrenheit (-2 degrees Celsius).

Q: How long does a frost advisory typically last?

A: A frost advisory typically lasts for several hours.

Q: What should I do if I'm under a frost advisory?

A: Take steps to protect your plants from the cold, such as covering them with blankets or tarps, watering them deeply, or moving them indoors.

Q: What are the signs of frost damage?

A: The signs of frost damage include wilting, browning, and blackening of leaves.

Q: How can I prevent frost damage?

A: There are a number of things you can do to prevent frost damage, such as covering your plants, watering them deeply, and using a frost cloth or blanket.

Resources

• National Weather Service Frost Advisory
• University of California Cooperative Extension Frost Protection
• American Horticultural Society Frost Protection