If you recently added flowers, plants, or trees to your lawn and landscaping during the stretch of spring-like weather, we’ve got news for you: winter is not over yet in Kansas City! With temperatures dropping like a rock and snow on the way into the metro, SK Lawn and Landscape has some essential tips to keep your new plants safe and thriving until spring truly arrives.
1. Cover Your Plants Before Freezing Temperatures Hit
A sudden drop in temperature can shock new plants and flowers, potentially stunting their growth or even killing them. Covering your plants with burlap, frost cloths, or even an old bedsheet can provide a protective barrier against the cold. Secure the covering with stakes or rocks to keep it from blowing away.
2. Mulch for Insulation
Mulching around the base of your plants and trees helps insulate the soil, maintaining a stable temperature and preventing roots from freezing. A thick layer (about 2-4 inches) of mulch, straw, or wood chips can provide the warmth your plants need to survive unpredictable late-season cold snaps.
3. Water Plants Before a Freeze
It may seem counterintuitive, but watering your plants before an overnight freeze can actually help protect them. Moist soil retains heat better than dry soil, helping to keep roots warmer. Be sure to water early in the day so the moisture has time to soak in before temperatures drop.
4. Move Potted Plants Indoors
If you have potted plants or flowers on your patio or porch, bring them inside or into a garage when temperatures dip below freezing. These plants are especially vulnerable since their roots are not as insulated as those in the ground.
5. Protect Young Trees
Newly planted trees need extra care in extreme weather. Wrap the trunks of young trees with tree wrap or burlap to prevent frost cracks and sunscald, which can damage the bark and stunt growth. You can also use stakes to stabilize young trees against harsh winter winds.
6. Use Row Covers or Cloches for Delicate Plants
If you have fragile flowers or vegetable plants, consider using row covers or plastic cloches to create a mini greenhouse effect. These covers trap heat and provide a protective barrier against frost and wind, ensuring your plants stay safe until warmer weather returns.
7. Check the Weather Forecast Regularly
Kansas City’s weather can be unpredictable, so keeping an eye on the forecast can help you prepare for sudden temperature drops. Be proactive by covering plants or moving them to a warmer location before cold fronts move in.
Let SK Lawn and Landscape Help Protect Your Plants
Winter’s last blasts can be tough on new plants, but with the right precautions, you can keep your landscaping looking beautiful and healthy. At SK Lawn and Landscape, we specialize in designing low-maintenance landscapes that can withstand Kansas City’s unpredictable weather. Whether you need expert advice, seasonal plant care, or a custom landscaping plan, our team is here to help.
Call SK Lawn and Landscape today at (816) 372-4965 to keep your yard looking its best year-round!
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