When a freeze warning goes into effect for Central Arizona and temperatures are expected to drop below 32\xc2\xb0F, your landscape needs immediate attention. Arizona's warm-climate plants are often highly susceptible to frost damage \xe2\x80\x94 and a single night of exposure can undo years of growth.
The good news: a few simple precautions taken the evening before a freeze can save your plants entirely. Here's exactly what to do.
Which Plants Are Most at Risk?
Some species are far more susceptible to frost damage than others. The most vulnerable include bougainvillea, citrus trees, hibiscus, ficus, and non-native cactus. Before a freeze, walk your yard and identify which plants fall into these categories \xe2\x80\x94 those are your priorities.
Your Freeze Protection Checklist
Identify Frost-Sensitive Plants
Bougainvillea, citrus, hibiscus, ficus, and non-native cactus are your highest priority. Walk the yard the evening before a predicted freeze and note what needs covering.
Choose the Right Cover Material
Use landscape tarps, bed sheets, light blankets, or burlap. These allow moisture to escape while retaining heat. Do NOT use plastic \xe2\x80\x94 direct contact with plastic causes more damage than no cover at all.
Cover Before Sunset
Temperature drops rapidly after sunset. Cover plants in the early evening to trap residual ground heat underneath the fabric.
Keep Plants Covered Through Morning
Do not remove covers at sunrise. Some of the coldest temperatures of the day occur just after sunrise. Wait until late morning when temperatures stabilize above freezing.
Water the Night Before
Moist soil retains heat far better than dry soil and releases it slowly overnight. A thorough watering the evening before a freeze can make a significant difference.
Never use plastic sheeting directly against plant leaves. The plastic transfers the cold directly to the leaf surface and often causes more frost damage than leaving the plant uncovered. Always use breathable fabric.
Concerned about your landscape's winter readiness? Our team can assess and prepare your yard.
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