Winter in Florida? Yes, we do get wintry days in Florida, although they are (thankfully) few and far between. Pinellas County is in USDA hardiness zone 10 and freezes are uncommon, but frosts can happen even when the forecast temps range in the mid 30s-40s. Frost can occur thanks to microclimates where the air is cold, still, and humid, allowing temps to drop locally and ice crystals to form. So, what is a gardener to do about cold snaps in coastal Southwest Florida?

If you have sensitive tropical plants like orchids or tender vegetable crops, it may be a good idea to protect them when temps hit the low 40s to mid 30s- even if no freeze is predicted. Container plants can be moved inside or under a tree canopy where temps typically remain a bit warmer. Newer, young plants will generally be more vulnerable than established ones. So, if you must prioritize protection, start with your newest garden additions.

Frost cloth (or old bed sheets, for example) can be draped over other tender plants. Use a support structure to avoid touching the plants’ leaves as much as possible. Tomato cages and wooden stakes work well as support structures. If the cover touches the leaves, the cold can readily transfer to the plant, so avoid this as much as you can. Fabric covers are better than plastic. For smaller plants one can use empty cardboard boxes as covers. Be sure to anchor all covers with clips, bricks, etc. so they remain in place even on windy nights.

Be sure to remove covers when temps go back up during the day.

0