Garden Weather
Garden Weather Protection Guide: Frost, Heat, Hail, Wind, and Heavy Rain
How gardeners can protect plants from frost, heat, hail, wind, heavy rain, drought, and sudden temperature swings.
Quick answer: Garden weather protection starts with knowing which hazard is coming: frost, heat, hail, wind, flooding, or drought all need different responses.
Frost and freeze
Cover sensitive plants before temperatures drop and remove covers after warming.
Containers can be moved to sheltered spots more easily than in-ground plants.
Heat and drought
Water deeply when appropriate, use mulch, and shade vulnerable plants during extreme heat.
Avoid midday watering if it wastes water or stresses plants.
Hail and wind
Temporary covers can help with small hail, but severe hail and wind can overwhelm garden protection.
Secure cages, trellises, and lightweight pots before storms.