Winter Whiplash: How Sudden Temp Changes Can Harm Your Plants and What to Do About It
Although we live in the South, winter sometimes brings cold temperatures that can cause severe damage to many of our landscape plants. A late freeze after the temps have risen could cause more damage than the same cold temps in winter when these plants have become dormant and more resistant to changes in temps. Here’s how it can affect them:
Sudden Growth Spurts and Freeze Damage
Warm temperatures can trigger premature growth, causing plants to break dormancy early. When the temperature drops suddenly, new growth (which is tender and full of water) is highly susceptible to frost damage or death.
Cell Rupture and Tissue Damage
Cold injury affects all plant parts (flowers, fruits, leaves, stems, trunks, roots, buds), with fruits and flowers being the least tolerant. Rapid cooling can cause ice crystals to form inside plant cells, rupturing cell walls and leading to wilted, blackened, or mushy foliage. Slower temperature drops allow ice to form between cell walls, which hardier plants can often withstand.
Root Stress and Water Uptake Issues
Plants take up water more efficiently in warm weather, but freezing temperatures can cause water in the soil to freeze, preventing roots from absorbing moisture. This can lead to dehydration and stress.
Increased Susceptibility to Disease
Temperature swings weaken plants, making them more vulnerable to fungal infections, rot, and pest infestations.
Reduced Blooming
Flower buds and early blooms can be destroyed by sudden freezes, affecting bloom production later in the season.
How to Protect Plants from Extreme Temperature Swings
Mulch around the base of plants to insulate roots from temperature fluctuations.
Water deeply before a freeze; moist soil retains heat better.
Cover plants with frost blankets or sheets overnight to trap warmth.
Move potted plants to sheltered areas like garages or patios.
Mississippi's weather is unpredictable, like a box of chocolates. However, with the right knowledge, we can keep our plants healthy and happy. As always, happy gardening.
