Protecting those spring buds from the cold

The cold weather is raising some concerns for many area gardeners. A plantâ€™s new growth is what is in danger with these frigid temperatures. <br/><br/>News on 6 reporter Ashli Sims says despite the

Wednesday, March 22nd 2006, 1:10 pm

By: News On 6

The cold weather is raising some concerns for many area gardeners. A plantâ€™s new growth is what is in danger with these frigid temperatures.

News on 6 reporter Ashli Sims says despite the cold snap, folks were still looking to brighten up their gardens with some spring flowers. Jan Renner and her husband are down from Kansas, doing a little spring break shopping. "It seems like winter break instead of spring break. But getting out and about, it didn't stop us."

Steve Smith says the Renner's might want to wait a little bit, before they plant their purchase. With temperatures dropping below freezing, even Southwood Nursery at 91st and Lewis is hauling plants inside. "Usually this time of year we're constantly bringing this in and out because we have these freezes."

Several plants are already budding and blooming and that new growth is what you should be worried about. "Where you see that tender growth and those flowers showing up you might need to cover up if it gets in the upper 20s. But before you go grabbing that roll of plastic. "Leaf mulch or blankets, not plastic. Plastic that touches the flower or plant can actually do some damage at that touch point."

Smith says you need to use sticks or poles to create a tent affect like this to trap heat and minimize damage. For small plants, a simple cardboard box can do the trick.

Jan Renner says she's probably going to wait to do her gardening. â€œI think I will. On the way down we heard rain turning to snow. And if Oklahoma has it, we'll have it."

Steve Smith says another easy way to protect your plants, run your sprinkler system. The water will probably be warmer than the air and that can also help insulate your plants.