Do I cover plants when temps are below 32 even if no frost?

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glacierhiker San Diego, CA(Zone 10b) Apr 07, 2009

I have a simple question. If the spring weather drops below freezing should I take the same precautions as if there were a frost warning? I live in central OH (Zone 5) and have some perennials that are leafing out (I am particularly concerned about a Japanese Maple and a Marcophylla Hydrangea) and we are about to experience overnight lows below freezing. I have watched the evening news and checked the internet but do NOT see any frost warnings. Should I cover these plants? Is it only the frost I should worry about or can the cold air also kill the new growth & buds?

Thanks

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crazymary Lodi, CA(Zone 8b) Apr 07, 2009

If those plants are marginal in your area, then I would cover them. I know that cold air can do plants in as well. If they are hardy to a zone 4, I wouldn't worry about them.

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Smokey_SC Piedmont, SC(Zone 7b) Apr 07, 2009

Don't make yourself cry, cover them up.

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valrita Apr 07, 2009

I've covered everything that I possibly could. I'd rather be safe than sorry. I've used pots where possible then went to Goodwill and bought a bunch of sheets for $2 each to cover most everything else.

I just would rather know that I've done what I could than worry all night.
Good luck.

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cathy4 St. Louis County, MO(Zone 5a) Apr 07, 2009

Sheets are a great choice, wise decision.

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glacierhiker San Diego, CA(Zone 10b) Apr 07, 2009

Great advice. Thanks everyone. Off to find some old sheets now...

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