Stacy’s Freeze Recovery Questions: Garden Guy’s Expert Answers 1/26

Stacy’s Freeze Recovery Questions: Garden Guy’s Expert Answers

By Todd Farber, Aggie Horticulturist and Expert Landscaper

Houston gardeners have been asking great questions about how to handle freeze-damaged plants. Stacy recently reached out to Ask Garden Guy with some common concerns. Her questions—and our answers—might help you too! Here’s what to do with your plants after a freeze to help them recover and thrive.

Question 1: Do we prune our hibiscus that are in the ground now or leave them as is?

🌺 Answer: For hibiscus in the ground, leave them as is for now. Hibiscus are tropical plants, and their leaves may naturally fall off and regrow when the weather warms up. Pruning too early can expose the plant to further damage, especially if there’s another freeze. Wait until spring to do significant pruning when you see new growth.

Question 2: Is it ok to prune the mushy stuff now, considering another freeze is expected around 2/6 (e.g., cannas, banana plants, lantana, foxtails)?

✅ Answer: Yes, you can safely prune mushy and waterlogged areas on plants like cannas, banana plants, and foxtails now. Removing damaged tissue helps prevent rot and disease. However, avoid cutting these plants back completely to the ground; leave some stubs or intact areas to protect the base from potential freeze damage.

🌸 For lantana, it’s best to wait until the risk of another freeze has passed. Lantana often looks dead after a freeze but usually regrows from its base. Delay heavy pruning until spring when you see signs of new growth.

General Freeze Recovery Tips

📋 Here’s how to care for your garden after a freeze:

1. Be Patient: Some plants may take weeks to show signs of recovery. Don’t remove a plant unless you’re certain it’s dead.

2. Add Mulch: Protect roots by applying a fresh layer of mulch around the base of plants to moderate soil temperature.

3. Avoid Fertilizing: Hold off on fertilizing until new growth appears. Fertilizing too early can stress the plant.

4. Water Carefully: Only water if the soil is dry—avoid overwatering freeze-damaged plants.

Need Help with Your Garden? Send Us Your Questions and Photos!

📸 Have questions like Stacy? Send us questions and pictures of your plants for FREE advice! Whether it’s pruning tips, freeze recovery, or general plant care, we’re here to help Houston homeowners get their gardens thriving again.

👉 Click here to schedule a consultation

💚 Let’s bring your garden back to life together and make it thrive year-round!

👉 Follow us on Facebook or Instagram and stay in-the-know!

#FreezeRecovery #HoustonLandscaping #PruningTips #GardenGuy #HoustonPlants