How to protect your plants in the cooler weather

‘Tis the season to start thinking about ways to protect your tender ornamentals.

“Dropping below freezing, 32 degrees (Fahrenheit), is not that big of a deal, for one or two hours here or there,” said Romey Romero, producer and co-host of “Rosie on the House.” “You should start being concerned if the temperatures are expected to drop for multiple hours in a row.”

Sub-freezing temperatures are extremely dangerous for tropical plants and citrus trees.

“Citrus will not produce good fruit on new growth,” said Romero. “A citrus tree that freezes all the way to ground and has to be cut, it will be years before you regain that fruit. You definitely want to keep your eye on that.”

Some tips:

Use cloth designed to protect plants. Blankets and towel could suffocate plants.

Although counter-intuitive, running water help prevent freezing.

Don’t uncover your plants in the morning before leaving for work. It’s when plants are often most vulnerable.