Winter Plant Protection: Best Covering Materials for Cold Weather

Plants need winter protection. Mulch often suffices for roots; snow provides natural insulation. But many plants need extra help surviving until spring.

Is Covering Necessary?

University of Georgia horticulturists emphasize: healthy, well-watered, fed, pest-free plants withstand cold best. Choose zone-appropriate plants. Use covers only during cold snaps; remove promptly when weather moderates.

Young evergreens suffer sunscald for 2-5 winters. Light-colored covers reflect light, stabilizing bark temperature. Deep-water evergreens before ground freeze—they can't replace moisture lost to winter wind/sun.

Winter Covering Options

• Burlap: Natural fiber for marginally hardy plants, young shrubs/trees. Wrap loosely or create stake teepee, drape burlap, secure with twine—prevents wet-heavy breakage.
• Plastic: NOT recommended—traps moisture, kills in freeze. Emergency use only (garbage bag); remove by morning. Old sheets/newspapers are safer.
• Polypropylene/fleece: Lightweight, breathable, light-permeable. Various thicknesses/protection levels (sold as garden fabric, quilt, frost-protect). Lay directly or wrap stake/bamboo/PVC frameworks. Available in rolls for large areas.

Match covering to plant needs and weather severity.