^The ANSON BIZ-ZINE
WADESBORO, ANSON COUNTY, NORTH CAROLINA, U.S.A.

     Our winter temperature fluctuations can trick outdoor ornamental plants into breaking dormancy early. The afternoon high over the weekend was an astonishing 74 degrees F, 20 degrees higher than our normal high. Conversely, last week we saw a high of 35 degrees F. The concern is that tender new growth and blossoms will be vulnerable to frost damage, wasting stored energy that was to be used in spring. What is a homeowner to do when bitter winds, frost, or ice threaten flowering plants?

• Choose a plant tolerant of our winters. Anson County lies in Plant Hardiness Zone 7b. This indicates most plants in our area can tolerate minimum winter temperatures between 5-10 degrees F. A lower zone number mean greater cold tolerance. However remember to consider a plant’s heat tolerance as well.
• If structural damage has occurred due to freezing temps, most woody plants will regenerate. If you have a borderline tolerant shrub or small tree that has had damage in the past, try covering the root crown with leaves or straw to protect the trunk since the bark may be thin. Or temporarily cover it with burlap or a light sheet during the night.
• Pay less attention to temperature and more attention to the microclimate provided in the garden. Is the soil well drained to prevent roots from drowning, freezing, or rotting? Are plants in a location that provides the proper amount of sun? Place delicate plants closer to the house for wind protection, those types of considerations.
• Temperature is really only a concern for plants that cannot tolerate our average winter lows or else the microclimate has not been thoughtfully planned.
• Clay soils retain a lot of moisture for long periods. If this is a problem, try planting in raised beds 4-6 inches high, incorporate compost into the soil to increase drainage, and apply mulch.

Aimee Marshall
Assistant Horticulture and Forestry Agent