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Debbie Dujanovic ReportingDays of rain are greening up lawns, but a pending freeze may spell big trouble for plants. KSL’s Debbie Dujanovic went straight to the experts on how we can keep up with Mother Nature this week.
People are ready to garden and experts are armed with some great advise on how to handle freezing temperatures and too much water.
Over the last few days we've spotted several water wasters, sprinkling even when it's been raining. The rule is simple -- It's April, don't water.
Maggie Wolf, Utah State University Extension Office: "We consider it wasteful to water in April and the recommended times to start watering would be more like May."
Cool April temperatures mean the grass doesn't absorb a lot of water anyway.
Local experts are also concerned about a potential freeze this Friday.
Dave Smith, Home Depot: "We want to be concerned about anything that came fresh out of the greenhouse this year, if you just planted something you want to make sure it's protected."
Established perennials that flower every spring will probably survive a freeze.
Dave Smith, Home Depot: "If you've had them in the ground a year, you don't need to protect them."
But cover your planted veggies: herbs, tomatoes, beans, and peppers.
For about $2, most nursery's sell a wall of water; it insulates tender plants during extreme cold. Home Depot also suggests a bed sheet as a cost-free freeze fighter. But Master Gardener Maggie Wolf says if you choose a sheet remember, “whatever kind of cover you pick can get blown away. So make sure you anchor it well.”
If you’re an ambitious gardener and you've potted annuals to brighten up your porch, watch the temperatures. If it hits the freezing mark, pull them in the garage or house otherwise, it's back to the nursery to replace them.
