Defrosting Your Garden

A little frost protection can go a long way. That’s because, when it comes to freezing temperatures, Southern California is a borderline area. Potted plants pulled under a roof will often remain undamaged, while those left exposed to the sky will freeze. Leafy trees also can help. Warm air is constantly rising from the earth (which very seldom freezes here). Thus anything that keeps warm air from dissipating will shield tender plants. Covering large plants at night will protect them. Old fabric sheets are better than plastic at retaining warmth. But be sure to remove covers when the sun comes out. The sun’s heat can create a hothouse condition under a cover and can damage the plant or force too-early tender spring growth. I’ve found when the temperature registers 45 degrees Fahrenheit or less at 9 p.m., it is time to cover. It also seems that temperatures, on a night after a rainy day, seldom go below freezing, though they may the next night. As long as the sky is heavily overcast, a freeze isn’t likely, but beware when the sky clears up.