Tips to protect plants from frost this winter

As temperatures plummet below zero and with snow falling across some parts of the UKthis week, there are ways you can protect your garden plants from frost damage. Frost damage, which occurs

when the water inside the plant freezes and expands, can be lethal for plants, with repeated thawing and freezing being particularly harmful. By following these three simple tips from Jack

Sutcliffe, co-founder of Power Sheds, you will protect your much-loved plants this winter. BUBBLE WRAP SENSITIVE PLANTS  Covering up any plants that are particularly vulnerable to frost

damage, such as roses, can prevent damage and perform wonders. Bubble wrap works particularly well for blocking out the cold air. LIFT PLANT POTS OFF THE GROUND  With winter comes rain,

snow, and ice, which can mean plant pots on the floor get waterlogged and cannot drain properly. Lifting them off the ground means they will not be left standing in water or snow. You might

want to put them in a more sheltered position in the garden or in a greenhouse if you have one. USE BARK OR STRAW AS MULCH   The Royal Horticultural Society recommends using bark around the

plant base to insulate the living, water-conductive tissues in the plant, and prevent them from freezing, causing root damage and preventing water uptake. You can also use straw.    England

is set to face lows of -6 degrees celsius this weekend, while across the border in Scotland temperatures could plummet to -12 degrees Celsius. The Met Office has extended its existing yellow

warnings for snow and ice until midday on Sunday, December 11, in some areas of northern Scotland. There may be further wintry showers today, but mainly for coastal areas. Freezing fog is

also likely in some places, and severe frosts are likely this evening. A Met Office yellow weather warning means some roads and railways are likely to be affected with longer journey times

by road, bus and train services. The warning also means there is some risk of injuries from slips and falls on icy surfaces, and also that there will likely be some icy patches on some

untreated roads, pavements and cycle paths