How to Use a Frost Blanket

Types of Frost Blankets

Frost blankets are an essential tool for gardeners and farmers looking to protect their plants from frost damage. But with so many types of frost blankets on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your specific needs. Let's break down the different types of frost blankets available and help you determine which one is best for you.

Floating row covers

Floating row covers are lightweight, breathable fabrics that can be draped over plants to protect them from frost and other elements. They are easy to use and can be left on plants throughout the growing season. Floating row covers come in various thicknesses, so make sure to choose one that matches the level of protection your plants need.

Insulated frost blankets

Insulated frost blankets, also known as frost cloth or frost fabric, are made with multiple layers of fabric that provide extra protection against frost. These blankets are ideal for sensitive plants that need extra insulation during cold weather. They can be draped over plants or even wrapped around planters to provide maximum protection.

Plastic frost blankets

Plastic frost blankets are typically made from polypropylene or other plastic materials and are ideal for protecting plants against light frost. They are lightweight and easy to use, but they don't allow for air circulation, so they should be removed during the day to prevent plants from overheating.

Fleece frost blankets

Fleece frost blankets are another type of frost protection that provides insulation against cold temperatures. They are breathable and lightweight, making them ideal for covering delicate plants without weighing them down. Fleece frost blankets can be easily draped over plants and removed when the temperatures warm up.

Plant covers

Plant covers are pre-formed covers that can be placed directly over individual plants or rows of plants. They provide instant protection against frost and can be easily removed and stored when not in use. Plant covers come in various sizes and shapes to fit different types of plants and can be reused season after season.

When to sue Frost Blankets

The answer depends on a few factors, including the type of plants you are trying to protect, the temperature forecast, and the duration of the cold weather.

One key factor to consider is the type of plants you are trying to protect. Some plants are more sensitive to frost than others, so it is important to know the cold hardiness of your plants. For example, tropical plants like bougainvillea or hibiscus are very sensitive to frost and will need to be covered as soon as temperatures drop.

Another factor to consider is the temperature forecast. Frost blankets are most effective when temperatures are expected to drop below freezing. In general, it is a good idea to cover your plants when temperatures are forecasted to be below 32 degrees Fahrenheit (0 degrees Celsius).

The duration of the cold weather is also important to consider. If temperatures are only expected to be below freezing for a short period of time, you may be able to get away without using frost blankets. However, if temperatures are expected to be below freezing for an extended period, it is best to cover your plants to prevent damage.

How to Use a Frost Blanket

As the temperatures begin to drop and winter approaches, it's important to protect your plants from frost damage. One easy and effective way to do this is by using a frost blanket. Frost blankets are thin, lightweight fabrics that provide insulation for your plants and help to trap heat close to the ground. Here's how to use a frost blanket to keep your plants safe and healthy during the cold winter months.

1. Choose the right size: Frost blankets come in various sizes, so it's important to measure your plants and choose a blanket that will fully cover them. You want to make sure that the blanket reaches the ground on all sides to create a barrier against the cold.
   
2. Secure the blanket: Once you have the right size blanket, carefully drape it over your plants, making sure it covers them completely. Use stakes or rocks to secure the edges of the blanket to the ground, so it doesn't blow away in the wind.
   
3. Use on cold nights: Frost blankets are most effective on nights when temperatures are expected to drop below freezing. Keep an eye on the weather forecast and cover your plants with the blanket before nightfall to protect them from frost damage.
   
4. Remove during the day: In the morning, when temperatures rise above freezing, be sure to remove the blanket from your plants to allow them to get sunlight and air. Leaving the blanket on during the day can cause overheating and moisture buildup, which can be harmful to your plants.
   
5. Store properly: When not in use, fold up your frost blanket and store it in a dry place until it's needed again. Proper storage will help prolong the life of the blanket and ensure that it remains effective for future use.

Where to buy frost blanket

Are you a gardener looking for ways to protect your plants from frost during the colder months? Look no further than NH Thinstone, a top supplier of frost blankets to help keep your plants safe and healthy.

At NH Thinstone, we offer a wide range of frost blankets in different sizes to suit your gardening needs. Whether you have a small garden or a large farm, we have the perfect frost blanket for you. Our blankets are made from high-quality materials that are durable and long-lasting, ensuring that your plants are protected season after season.

Head over to NH Thinstone today and buy a frost blanket to protect your plants this winter. Your garden will thank you for it!