With the winter season nearly here, green-thumbed shoppers can keep plants ‘protected against wind and frost’ with one simple product that won’t break the bank
As we head deeper into autumn, gardeners across the country are getting their gardens and allotments in shape as they prepare for the wind and frost that are sure to come with the arrival of winter. Whether you’re looking to protect newly planted trees or save blooming bushes for next spring, plant fleeces may be just the ticket when it comes to ensuring your garden stays intact through the wet and windy weather of winter.
READ MORE: Most hydrangeas won’t flower next year unless you use these expert-approved autumn tricks
READ MORE: ‘Luxurious’ skincare advent calendar worth £894 just £89: ‘this one stands out’
This twin pack on Amazon (£19.99) comes stocked with two large plant covers that are perfect for plants sized 55”-70″ tall and 84”-94″ wide. Heavy-weight FRCs like these are designed to extend the growing season in spring and fall, allowing for 40%-60% light transmittance, and freeze protection from 3° to 8°F.
Offering a simple and convenient design, these covers feature an easy-to-use drawstring at the opening, making it easier and quicker to cover plants at the last minute or during harsh weather conditions. Additionally, there’s no need to worry; despite its simple design, the drawstring is sturdy and ensures the cover remains secure, regardless of what the elements throw at it.
Constructed from high-quality non-woven fabric, these covers allow air and moisture to reach your plants, keeping them breathable, without letting the winter weather cause damage that will prevent growth and blossoming next year. Additionally, they are lightweight and soft, ensuring they are plant-friendly and do not harm the plant’s growth.
Protecting plants from snow, hail, frost, and extreme temperature fluctuations during the winter, these covers also keep your plants safe from insects and birds during the spring season.
This two-pack includes garden fleeces measuring 120×180 CM, with alternative size options available. This pack sells for £19.99 on Amazon.
For something more lightweight, B&Q is offering these Fleece Plant Frost Protection Jacket Covers (Set of 6) for £12.98, while Gardening Express has these Extra Thick (30gsm) Medium Frost Protection Fleece Plant Jackets (Pack of 3) for £7.99.
Meanwhile, the Amazon option is a winner among green-thumbed shoppers who have bestowed plenty of 5-star reviews. One thrilled customer raves: “Good quality, large bag with zip , making it easy to position on trees and bushes a like. Drawstring at the bottom to make it tight at base. Wanted it to protect my lemon tree, seems to have worked well.”
Another buyer beams: “Protected my large Oleander plant over the winter 23/24. Had a few brown leaves but that was it – whilst my mum and brother had same plant and both of theirs were killed off by frost so they have now ordered the same covers for other large plants.”
Further praise comes from this shopper who says: “Really easy to use and certainly kept my tree ferns frost-free last year. So pleased have ordered smaller ones to cover small delicate shrubs replacing fleece sheet I used last year.”
One customer does note one gripe, writing: “I bought these covers for my 4 feet plants as it is harder and harder for my husband to lift them indoors every winter and was delighted to cover the plants to leave them outside this winter. It was simple to use and the zipper was excellent to close them up after I covered the plants. I loved the fact they allowed light and moisture in, meaning I had less to do. Unfortunately both plants died and although I watered them twice, thinking they wouldn’t even need that, it was obvious water wasn’t getting in. I should have realised that as I remember seeing pools of water on the gathered parts of the fabric when it rained. Maybe the plants dying was my fault, but I won’t use them again.”
But the overwhelming response is positive as even more 5-star ratings come in. This customer gushes: “I purchased two large and two of the smaller sets to protect large hydrangeas during the recent frost, and they did the job perfectly. Highly recommended.”