SPRING is almost here but there are still a few frosty nights for your plants to endure.
A simple hack can help protect them from the elements until the weather warms up.
Gardening experts have revealed a simple step that can help to protect your potted plants from frost (stock image)[/caption]
If you jumped the gun potting plants during the sunny spell and now you’re worried about them surviving a cold snap, a simple step can help.
So even if there’s a layer of frost in the morning, your potted plants will be insulated and protected.
And don’t worry, you won’t have to fork out for a mini greenhouse or lamp heater.
In fact, this tip won’t cost you anything at all because all you need is an item you would usually throw away.
According to the experts at Richard Jacksons Garden, you can “keep container plants snug” with a simple addition to your pots.
This is an important step as the roots of trees, shrubs and perennials in containers are vulnerable during a cold weather.
Frost can penetrate the sides of your pot and kill the roots of these plants.
It damages plants by freezing the water inside the plant cells, which then burst and die.
In order to keep the roots of your plants “nice and snug”, gardeners recommend lining the inside of your pots with bubble wrap.
When potting your plants this spring, take this step to help insulate the roots.
Remember to puncture a few holes in the base to allow water to drain out.
You can also cut off any surplus bubble wrap from the top so the material doesn’t stick out.
And if you don’t have bubble wrap on hand, you can opt for more traditional methods of insulating your plants from frost.
Layering mulch at the base of your plant pot can help to protect your roots.
Organic materials such as straws, leaves, or wood chips are recommended.
Top 5 Spring Gardening Jobs
Nick Grey, Gtech Inventor and CEO shared the tasks to crack on with as Spring arrives.
1. Clean your garden
Make sure to clear away all leaves, soil and plant debris from your patios and flower beds; this creates a healthier environment for new growth, especially as we get into the summer months. Gtech’s Garden Safety Kit includes durable gardening gloves and safety glasses; perfect for comfortability whilst tackling those outdoor tasks.
2. Weeding
Early Spring is the best time to tackle weeds; if you can introduce some regular weeding into your routine, you can guarantee a tidy garden all year round.
3. Hedge maintenance
Spring is the ideal time to tidy up overgrown hedges and shrubs, as regular trimming ensures healthy growth and reduces pest issues. Using a tool like the Gtech Lightweight Hedge Trimmer can help to keep your greenery looking sharp and neat.
4. Composting
Starting a compost heap this spring is a pro-active, cost-effective way to harness nutritious soil for your plants and recycle organic waste that will benefit the overall health of your greenery and foliage.
5. Look after your lawn
Lawn care is hugely important in assuring your garden stays looking beautiful. Make sure to rake away any excess leaves and trim your grass routinely.
Bark mulch can help to add nutrients to soil and help to improve drainage.
Experts also advise gardening enthusiasts to survey their outdoor space before choosing where to place their potted plants.
You should make sure to avoid any potential frost pockets in your garden.
And if you want to take extra steps to protect your plants from the elements, a budget buy is available.
Green-fingered shoppers picked up a budget-friendly mini greenhouse from Dunelm.
