Cold temperatures can injure plants in home landscapes. But there are measures that can be taken to help them.
“First of all, don’t do anything at present,” said Patrick Byers, horticulture specialist with the University of Missouri Extension. “Wait until spring arrives and plants begin to grow. This is the best time to assess overall cold injury to plants.”
During the spring, Byers said, prune only dead and severely damaged wood. Do not prune live wood. The larger the leaf surface area of the plant, the better it can manufacture food and grow new tissues. If fruit plants have injured flower buds, prune less than normal to compensate.
“Be sure to also water properly,” Byers said. “Make sure the plant is not further damaged by drought. Pay special attention to evergreens and plants situated under eaves. Water properly throughout the spring, summer and fall.”
Fertilization is recommended if the soil lacks adequate amounts of basic plant nutrients.
On severely damaged fruit plants, remove as much of the developing fruit as possible to allow it to overcome the winter injury rather than produce fruit.
“The best thing you can do for your injured tree or shrub is to avoid further stress during the coming season by giving it special attention and care,” Byers said.