Should You Water Plants When It's Freezing?

One common misconception among gardeners is that watering plants during freezing temperatures can protect them from the cold. However, this is not always the case. In fact, watering plants during freezing temperatures can do more harm than good.

Why It's Important to Understand Freezing Temperatures

Before we dive into whether or not you should water plants during freezing temperatures, it's important to understand what freezing temperatures are and how they affect plants. Freezing temperatures are a type of abiotic stress that can damage plants by forming ice crystals in the plant cells, which can cause the cells to rupture and die.

While some plants are more tolerant of freezing temperatures than others, most plants can only withstand a certain level of cold before becoming damaged. Understanding the freezing point of water is also important. It is at 32°F (0°C) that water freezes, and once frozen, it remains solid until it thaws.

The Risks of Watering Plants During Freezing Temperatures

If you water plants during freezing temperatures, you run the risk of creating a layer of ice on the plant, especially if the water doesn't have time to soak into the soil before it freezes. This layer of ice can be detrimental to the plant's survival as it prevents water from flowing into the roots and reaching the rest of the plant. Essentially, it can cause the plant to die of dehydration.

Additionally, watering the plant during freezing temperatures can cause the soil to become waterlogged, which can also be detrimental to the plant's survival. If the soil is already saturated with water, adding more water can cause the water to pool around the roots, leading to root rot and killing the plant.

When to Water Plants During Freezing Temperatures

While it's generally not recommended to water plants during freezing temperatures, there are certain times when it may be necessary. For example, if the plant is in a container and the soil is dry, it may need to be watered to prevent dehydration. However, it's important to ensure the water soaks into the soil before it has a chance to freeze on the plant.

Another instance when watering plants during freezing temperatures may be necessary is if the plant is young and has not yet established a strong root system. In this case, the plant may need to be watered to ensure it has enough water to survive the cold.

Conclusion

Overall, it's important to avoid watering plants during freezing temperatures whenever possible. While it may seem counterintuitive, watering plants during freezing temperatures can actually harm the plant more than help it. Instead, it's best to wait for warmer weather to water your plants or ensure that the water has enough time to soak into the soil before it freezes.