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We have seen a roller-coaster of temperatures and weather as usual in Pittsburgh this spring, and this week we are going to experience some temperatures at or below freezing. When wind chill is factored in, our early season blooms is be in jeopardy. To protect these early spring bulbs, such as crocus, hyacinths, daffodils, and soon tulips, from a late frost, we recommend using blankets or buckets through the cold nights to insulate them. The most important time to protect these buds are when several days of freezing temperatures are expected (below 29 degrees) or once the plant has already started to flower.

Here are a couple of tips when protecting spring blooms.

1. Cover plants with an old bed sheet, burlap, newspaper or some other fabric to keep them insulated from frost, cold air, and wind through the night. If preferred, an empty plastic pot or cardboard box will work just as well. (If using a bed sheet or newspaper, be sure to pin the edges down with a rock or some bricks. Also, be sure to place the cover before night fall.

2. Remove the frost cover the next morning after the frost has lifted from your grass blades. This will allow the plant to breathe and recoup during the day time. If temperatures will be cold during the daylight hours, it would be best to leave the cover on the plants during this time as well.

3. Repeat as necessary to protect your plants from frost on consecutive nights.

Thanks for reading everyone! Have a great spring and enjoy the early season blooms!