How to protect your plants from frost

It is a tricky time of the year for gardeners. Spring is here and it is time to sow but the threat of overnight frosts remains.

Early in the growing season, sudden cold snaps such as an overnight frost could significantly stun a plant's growth or potentially kill them.

We may see a few frosty nights in the coming days so here are a few ways to keep your garden smiling through the spring.

One of the most effective methods of protecting your plants is to bring light and small pots indoors. Plants in containers are more susceptible to freezing temperatures as they don't benefit from the insulating effects of the earth.

Bringing them indoors will protect them, but take note that putting them in a place that's too warm can shock the plant—a garage, shed, or basement are all good options.

Keeping the soil moist can help protect plants from the cold. This is because moist soil has an insulating effect and will help protect plants from freezing.

A light watering to wet the soil helps the ground retain more heat. Do not overwater or you could risk frost heave.

A cloche is any bell-shaped cover, usually made from plastic or glass, that helps keep smaller plants warm. You can buy a cloche, or construct one from household supplies (e.g., an upside-down bucket, a cut-off water bottle, or a flower pot).

Just like you would wrap yourself up on a chilly night, you can protect larger groups of plants from frost by laying down blankets, bed sheets, towels, or drop cloths.

Make sure you set up stakes around the area you want to be covered and use them to form a tent-like structure. You don't want to squash your hard work!