The first reaction after a frost is to get out into the garden and prune back any obviously damaged fronds, stems or branch tips. Stop! And stop yard maintenance people from doing this also. This is just the beginning of winter and the potential for more freezing nights is high. Damaged plant parts actually protect unaffected parts below. If these damaged portions are removed, you expose the healthy tissues to the next frost or freeze.
Many frost-damaged plants will come back from the base or sprout from unaffected branches in the spring. Plants that will not return are the summer annuals and vegetables. The best thing you can do for all of your garden plants now is to keep them watered until the rains come.
The bright side? Peonies, tulips, fruit trees, and other plants that require a good chilling will give us a grand show.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding your damaged plants, contact any of our stores or send your question to gardenguru@sloatgardens.com.
