plant pot covers for winter

Protecting Potted Plants in Winter with Covers

As winter draws near, gardeners need to take steps to protect plants in pots that will stay outside. Because their roots are more exposed, plants in pots are more likely to get hurt in the winter than plants in the ground. There are a lot of different pot covers that keep plant roots warm and keep pots from cracking. With the right covers, plants in pots can do well even when it’s very cold outside.

Why Potted Plants Need Winter Protection

Potted plants are prone to more extreme temperature changes than in-ground plants. Their roots are surrounded by a relatively small amount of soil and have less insulation from freezing and thawing cycles. Potted plants also lose moisture faster since they have more surface area exposed to drying winds. These factors make it crucial to provide extra protection.

Another issue is the material of the pots themselves. If water inside clay or plastic pots that aren’t glazed freezes and then thaws, the pots will break. Insulating covers prevent freeze/thaw cycles and the resulting pot damage.

Types of Covers for Outdoor Potted Plants

Burlap
Jute burlap is an eco-friendly choice for wrapping pots. It breathes well while providing insulation from cold. Burlap is also affordable and easy to wrap around pots. One potential downside is that burlap can absorb moisture which can lead to rotting. Fasten burlap wraps with twine or staples.

Bubble Wrap: For light insulation, bubble wrap is great for plants in pots. The air pockets provide excellent protection from freezing temperatures. Wrap the bubble wrap around the pots and tape it down securely. Opt for thicker bubble wrap for extra insulation.

Garden Fleece
This spun polyester material traps air and retains heat effectively. Fleece is also lightweight and inexpensive. For the best protection, wrap fleece snugly around pots and secure the bottom with weights.

Foam Pipe Insulation: Tubolit or Pool Noodle material used as pipe insulation works well for keeping pots warm. Slit the pipe insulation lengthwise and wrap it around pots. Use tape to hold it in place. The slit makes it easy to take off the insulation when you need to water plants.

Straw or Leaves
Dry straw from grasses or fallen leaves make a natural mulch for potted plants. Mound the straw or leaves around the pots to insulate roots. Be sure the mulch doesn’t block drainage holes.

Insulated Pot Covers
For large pots, consider buying commercial insulated covers. These waterproof covers fit neatly over pots and have foam linings for added warmth. They allow air and light to reach plants while protecting from cold and moisture.

Plastic Sheeting
Heavy duty plastic sheeting or tarps can be fashioned into protective covers. Wrap the pots with plastic and secure the bottoms with bricks or other weights. Make sure condensation and rainwater can drain out the bottom.

Cold Frames
For maximum winter protection, situate potted plants inside an unheated cold frame. The cold frame acts as a greenhouse to shield plants from icy winds and low temperatures. Ventilate the cold frame on sunny days to prevent overheating.

Caring for Potted Plants Under Winter Covers

Check plants under covers periodically for moisture needs. Water whenever the soil gets dry within an inch of the surface. Also check for mildew and rot from excess moisture. Wider plant spacing improves airflow and reduces moisture issues.

On sunny days above 40°F, remove or vent covers to allow light and air circulation. Monitor temperatures and re-cover plants in the evening before it gets cold. With proper care and insulation, potted plants can survive and thrive through harsh winter weather. The right protective covers are key to their success.