Best Practices for Freeze Cloth in Houston

Best Practices for Using Freeze Cloth:

• Choose the Right Material: Use breathable materials like frost cloth or horticultural fleece. Avoid plastic, which can trap moisture and cause overheating on sunny days.

• Secure It Properly: Drape the cloth loosely over the plant and secure it to the ground with stakes, rocks, or clips. Avoid tying it tightly, as this can restrict airflow and damage branches.

• Cover Completely: Ensure the cloth reaches the ground to trap warmth rising from the soil. For extra insulation, you can double-layer the cloth on particularly cold nights.

• Remove During the Day: If temperatures rise above freezing, remove the cloth to prevent overheating and allow sunlight to reach the plant.

4 Steps to Securing Frost Cloth Around Landscape Beds:

1. Measure and Cut the Cloth: Measure the area you need to cover and cut the frost cloth to fit, ensuring you have enough material to drape over the edges of the bed.

2. Anchor the Edges: Use landscape staples, bricks, or heavy rocks to secure the edges of the cloth to the ground. This prevents wind from lifting the material.

3. Overlap for Larger Areas: If covering a large bed, overlap pieces of frost cloth by 6-12 inches to ensure full coverage and prevent gaps where cold air can seep through.

4. Add Support if Needed: For taller plants or delicate shrubs, create a frame using stakes or hoops to hold the cloth above the plants, preventing it from weighing down leaves or branches.

By taking these steps, including the proper use of freeze cloth, you can help your shrubs and trees survive Houston’s occasional winter freezes and come back strong in the spring. Remember, a little prevention goes a long way in protecting the beauty and health of your landscape.

If you have more questions about winter plant care, feel free to reach out. As an Aggie horticulturist, I’m here to help you keep your garden thriving year-round! - Todd Farber, Garden Guy