Friday, April 06, 2007

Blackberry Winter/Blackberry Frost

Tonight we're going to experience a late frost/freeze here in Atlanta. The temp's should be in the 20's and this is probably the last frost of season. These "blackberry frosts" often happen when the blackberry plants begin to bloom. It seems like we have one every year which makes it very important to wait and not do any spring planting until after April 15th (as a general rule).
It's difficult to wait - trust me I understand because the garden centers are full of fresh summer annuals - flowers & vegies but if you make these purchases try and wait until mid April to plant.

To protect your plants from the frost be sure to water them thoroughly tonight before dark. Throughout the night the ground will release moisture to the plants that is somewhat warmer. If you cover your plants use old bed sheets, newspaper, straw/hay, or cardboard. If you use plastic just be sure to remove it in the morning before the sun gets hot (or your plants could burn). If you've taken your houseplants to the porch just haul them back inside or be sure to wrap them in burlap or bubble wrap if they are too heavy to move.

Good luck!
-Chip