Will Pot Plants Survive Through a Frost?

With colder temperatures and the possibility of frost on the horizon, many gardeners are wondering whether their potted plants will be able to survive the winter. While some plants are hardier than others, there are a few things you can do to give your pot plants the best chance of making it through a frosty night.

The Effects of Frost on Potted Plants

Frost occurs when temperatures drop below freezing, causing any water on the plant to freeze and damaging its cells. The severity of the damage is dependent on the length of time the plant is exposed to freezing temperatures, as well as other factors, such as the humidity level and wind speed.

In general, potted plants are more vulnerable to frost damage than plants growing in the ground. This is because the roots are not insulated by soil and the pot, itself, can get very cold, causing the plant to suffer.

Protecting Your Pot Plants from Frost

There are a few things you can do to protect your potted plants from frost:

Move the pots: If possible, move your pots to a sheltered location, such as a covered porch or garage, where they will be protected from the wind and the worst of the cold.

Cover the pots: Covering the pots with an old blanket or tarp will help to insulate the plant and protect it from the cold.

Water the plants: Watering the soil before a frost can help to protect the roots from damage. The water will freeze, creating a protective layer around the roots.

Add mulch: Adding a layer of mulch to the top of the soil can help to insulate the plant and protect it from the cold.

Choosing Hardy Plants for Pots

If you live in an area with harsh winters, it's a good idea to choose plants that are hardy enough to survive the cold. Some of the best plants for pots in cold climates include:

Evergreens: Plants such as boxwood, holly, and juniper are able to retain some of their foliage through the winter, providing year-round interest in your garden.

Spring-blooming bulbs: Bulbs such as tulips, daffodils, and hyacinth can be planted in fall and will provide beautiful blooms come springtime.

Herbs: Many herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, and sage, are able to survive cold winters and can be used for cooking all year round.

Conclusion

While pot plants are more susceptible to frost damage than those growing in the ground, there are things you can do to protect them. Moving them to a sheltered location, covering them, watering them, and adding mulch can all help to insulate the plant and protect it from the cold. Additionally, choosing hardy plants that are able to withstand freezing temperatures can help to ensure your pot garden survives through the winter.