With ‘unusually early frost’ coming to NC, should we protect our garden plants?

The National Weather Service says to expect an “unusually early frost and freeze” across much of central and eastern North Carolina tonight.

Do we need to do anything to our gardens to make sure our plants stay safe?

Here’s what Ashley Troth, an extension agent at NC State Extension’s Durham County Center, says:

• Thick-leaved plants are OK. The thicker the leaf (and brassicas like kale, broccoli and brussel sprouts are a great example of this), the more protected the plant is for cold temperatures.

• Thin-leaved plants might struggle. Row covers are great for more delicate crops as the temperature dips.

“But gardens should be prepared for cool temperatures by now,” Troth said. “The plants have been getting their signals. They’re getting ready for the cold.”

• Summer season has come to an end. Don’t worry about covering summer crops, as these cold temperatures are going to zap whatever life is left in these plants. Pluck your green tomatoes and leave them on your windowsill to ripen, and put your energy into helping the thin-leaved plants, Troth said.

• Temperature depends on your area. Downtown folks who have concrete all around them will see (slightly) higher temperatures, while rural residents might see temperatures dip a tad lower.

“I won’t be surprised if I get a few more days out of my summer veggies than someone who lives in a more rural part of the area does,” she said.

• Bring in your houseplants. “Most are tropical plants, and they’re not interested in what’s about to happen,” Troth said.

• If your cool-weather plants look rough, like major discoloration or wilting after a chilly night, that’s not a temperature issue.

“Something else is going on,” Troth said. “Get in touch with us.”

• A hard frost is coming, and those require more preparation than bursts of cool weather, like we’ll see this week, Troth said. A hard frost or freeze is defined as when temperatures get below 26 to 31 degrees. The first freeze is expected to come in early November. Row covers can be helpful then.

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