How will recent low temperatures affect my plants?

ASK THE HORT AGENT

Question How will recent low temperatures affect my plants?

Answer Rarely does a bitter cold snap have a desirable effect on plants. We are still in the midst of winter, so cold snaps can be expected. Plants have a wide range of reactions to low temperatures.

With landscape plants, it depends on their place of origin. If they are native to this area or comparable area (use hardiness zones), then the recent cold snap will have little effect on them. Weather is the primary instrument that nature uses to determine where plants will thrive. Cold and hot weather work together to draw the natural boundaries for plants.

As know-it-all humans, we move plants into areas where they would not naturally grow. Many of these plants can thrive in our modified environments. However, cold snaps and drought spells don't exactly ask permission to impose on our homesteads.

Plants that can't tolerate the extremes will be weeded out. Often times they are not killed outright. Many times they are merely maimed. Dieback from the tips of limbs or branches is the most common result of bitter cold temps.

Maimed plants are certainly stressed. While under stress, a disease or insect may come along and finish them off. This situation is one that can be expected with plants that are native to warmer areas. Be careful not to confuse “over-used” landscape plants as native.

There is a good side to plant mortality. It is called the "nursery" or "green industry." When plants die, then we have the opportunity to try different plants. There are more and better sources of plant material available to us now than ever before. Dead plants also provide the opportunity to relandscape areas. There are nurseries, landscapers, designers, neighbors, Master Gardeners, relatives and others that can help you make landscape decisions. Some folks even live in areas where there is a homeowners association, covenant agreement, or city/county ordinance that will gladly tell you what to do.

Often times we need "inspiration" to initiate change of any kind. A cold snap or drought spell might be a blessing in disguise. Spend your stimulus money on plants. With this attitude, we can't lose. For more info on cold damage, check out http://hgic.clemson.edu/factsheets/HGIC2350.htm If you don’t have internet access, call 893-7533 or email me gpierce@harnett.org

I don’t think the plants at my house suffered much damage. However, it will take me a while to get used to my dog’s new look. I’m pretty sure he froze his tail off for a couple nights.

Gary L. Pierce

Horticulture Extension Agent