Unseasonably Warm Autumn in the Twin Cities Gives Way to Frost
The Twin Cities area has enjoyed an unusually warm autumn, but frost is finally on the way. KARE 11’s weather team reports that overnight temperatures are expected to drop into the low 20s or below freezing in several locations across the Twin Cities and greater Minnesota, especially early Tuesday. This cold snap will likely mark the end of the growing season for the region.
If you want to protect your outdoor plants for a few more days or weeks, consider covering them overnight with a sheet, blanket, or tarp.
Tips to Protect Your Plants Before the Frost Hits
As the frost approaches, it’s important to take steps to protect vulnerable plants, trees, and flowers. Experts from the University of Minnesota Extension recommend watering your plants until the freeze occurs, using fallen leaves as mulch, and avoiding pruning after September.
Grow with KARE experts Laura Betker and Bobby Jensen highlight that some plants should never be pruned in the fall. These include magnolias, rhododendrons, and lilacs. In contrast, you should cut back plants like daylilies, peonies, bee balm, and bearded iris in the fall.
Protecting Trees and Shrubs
According to UMN experts, young trees with thin bark are at risk for sun scald and frost cracks. To prevent damage from deer and harsh winter sunlight, install white tree guards around their trunks.
If you have shrub roses that you want to survive the winter, the UMN Extension suggests installing fencing around them and piling fallen leaves on top to insulate and protect them from animals.
Preparing for Spring Blooms
While it may seem early, October is an ideal time to think about spring blooms. Betker advises that this season is perfect for planting spring bulbs.
For those looking for garden ideas, The Old Farmer’s Almanac recommends planting daffodils, crocuses, snowdrops, tulips, hyacinths, irises, and alliums.
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