People aren't the only ones feeling the pinch of the recent freezing temperatures- many of our plants have been reduced to twigs.
However, there are ways we can save our plants from the grip of the bitter cold. Here are some tips from Kathleen Patterson, Program Coordinator for Florida Yards and Neighborhoods:
Water your plants at the roots the morning after a freezing night. The sun will heat the water, keeping your plants about 10 degrees warmer.
Use a frost cloth or blanket to cover plants instead of plastic. The plastic will actually make the plant colder, killing it faster. Just be sure to secure the blanket with rocks or other weights to ensure your plant stays covered throughout the night.
Also, do not trim off dead foliage. The dead leaves actually help protect the root system.
If some plants don't make it through the winter, you may want to reconsider their use in your garden, and opt for plants tolerant to North Central Florida weather.