Although fall is a precious time in the garden, where we can all enjoy the fruits of our labors over the summer and watch the colors begin to change, it is also a time to keep an eye on changing weather conditions that can negatively impact everything from those beautiful trees to their fall color. Carefully tended to the fall vegetable garden you are looking forward to harvesting.
And right now, according to the Farmers’ Almanac’s fall weather forecast, we should be preparing for the colder months. A reliable source for long-range weather forecasts in the U.S. and Canada, the Farmers’ Almanac says in its 2023 extended fall forecast that America will see below-normal temperatures as we head toward the end of September and October: “Cooler, drier weather” should take hold during the fall, followed by a wave of From cold and unstable conditions in November and December.
With the exception of the Pacific Northwest, most parts of the country will also see above-average precipitation. Additionally, as we head into November, the Farmers’ Almanac says “unusually heavy snowfall” is expected in certain parts of the American Southwest.
So, in preparation for the cooler, wetter weather that will arrive earlier this year, here are six super-quick, easily reversible methods to help prepare and protect your plants, shrubs and winter crops for cold temperatures.
6 easy ways to protect your plants during periods of cold fall weather
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With the Farmers’ Almanac’s fall weather forecast in mind, here’s how to protect your plants from colon
1. Move young plants to a cold frame
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Autumn is a great time to plant hardy annuals – there are a lot of benefits to understanding the best types of flowers to plant in fall for a stunning summer display – however, young plants and perennials raised from seed may be sensitive and vulnerable to cold and cold. Frost damage. There are lots of really effective ways to protect plants from frost, and with small shrubs the very simple solution is often to place them in a cold frame. This will provide them with shelter during unusual cold spells, and they can be taken out easily if the weather changes during the season.
2. Cover winter crops with a glass cover
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If moving tender plants to a cold frame is difficult, you can invest in some covers to protect your winter vegetables, such as Swiss chard, lettuce, spinach, and peas. Covers (from Amazon) work well in borders or inside larger garden beds where a larger planting area can be covered. They can help protect vegetables from frost, and have the added benefit of protecting your crops from being eaten by animals and birds.
3. Wrap pots and bowls with cloth
Not all of us have access to a cold frame or greenhouse, but there are other cost-effective and easy ways to protect your plants. It is possible to add insulation to potted plants and shrubs by placing bubble wrap or Amazon fleece around the outside of the pot.
You can also cover the plants overnight in very cold weather using jute or burlap sack. They can of course be easily removed during the day to allow sunlight and air to reach the plant.
4. Protect sensitive tropical plants and trees
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As the seasons change, it’s important to think about fall tree care. In the same way that you might insulate a smaller pot, you can also keep a smaller or more delicate tree warm by adding a burlap wrap around its trunk.
If you’re planting palm trees or other tropical plants like bananas, you can tie up the leaves to protect the plant and add some straw around the base for an extra warm layer.
5. Support taller plants
Prolonged rainfall, especially if accompanied by strong winds, can negatively impact tall plants in your backyard. You can create support for them using sticks, wooden sticks or metal frames. Simply push them into the ground and secure your plants with gardening twine to prevent unwanted breakages.
6. Invest in some pot feet
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Obviously, your backyard needs rain, but in heavy, wet weather conditions, it’s a good idea to check the soil for any drainage issues, such as water pooling in pools, to ensure your plants don’t become waterlogged.
You can also elevate any pots you have by placing the Amazon pot feet underneath. This will improve drainage and is also another way to avoid frost damage to plants and containers.
common questions
What is the Farmers’ Almanac?
The Farmers’ Almanac has been providing highly accurate, long-range weather forecasts for the United States and Canada since 1818. It also publishes information and advice about gardening, lunar cycles, and outdoor recreation.
How does the Farmers’ Almanac predict the weather?
The Farmers’ Almanac has been using the same mathematical and astronomical formula to predict long-range weather conditions for more than 200 years. Farmers’ Almanac forecaster Caleb Weatherby makes his predictions two years in advance using a combination of sunspot activity, tidal movements, planetary positions and many other factors.
There’s a lot you can do now to prepare your backyard for early bouts of cold, wet weather. It’s worth noting that the Farmers’ Almanac is also forecasting above-average snowfall across the United States for the 2023-2024 winter season, so even if it seems a little early, get organized now — and plan your jobs for later in the season like preparing lavender for seasoning. winter. – It will pay huge dividends for your plants as we head into the winter months.