Protecting Zone 9 Container Plants from Near-Freezing Temps

Winterizing a New Phoenix-Area Landscape in Pots

Phoenix (zone 9) temps dropping to 33°F. Plants: pygmy palms, bougainvillea, lantana, dwarf Mexican palm, hibiscus, canna lilies, fairy duster, yellow bells, orange jubilee, ruellia, bottle brush. All in 5-gal containers.

Strategy

• 33°F is above freezing but risky.
• Containers are huge advantage—insulate root balls with towels/blankets.
• Cover crowns without touching foliage (frost burns where cover contacts).
• If possible, move under taller plant cover.
• Nick uses well-water irrigation all night to prevent frost, but not feasible without well.