From page 26
survive winter frosts, but may
known as frost-tender plants. be killed by unexpected
Others can tolerate mild frost spring frost.
(0°C to -3°C) – these are
When looking for cold
called half-hardy plants.
resistant plants there are some
The range of below freezing
pointers that are helpful. Look
temperatures tolerated by
at where the plants occur
plants that are commonly
naturally, those that grow in
known as frost-hardy varies
the Karoo, northern Eastern
enormously.
Cape, Free State and grassSome plants are killed outright lands of Mpumalanga and
Gauteng are typically cold
by frost while others suffer
hardy.
damage, such as complete
defoliation, from which they
Typically evergreen plants that
can recover.
are cold hardy have small to
Frost damage also depends on tiny or narrow leaves and the
the manner in which temper- plants themselves tend to be
almost stunted. They are also
ature changes, as well as on
very often rather slow
the season and the growth
growing. If they have slightly
stage of the plant. For
larger leaves they will be
example, if freezing is rapid
rather leathery or hairy, or
the plant can be killed at
have even have a waxy layer
higher temperatures than if
protecting them.
freezing is gradual.
Furthermore, greater injury to Obviously choose vegetables
that are able to cope with
the plant is likely to occur
during a period of continued frost. Check on the seed
packets or ask the nursery
freezing than during a short
freeze. Some plants may also staff if you are buying
ON water
THE
PLOT
your plants according
vegetable seedlings.
There are also precautions
that you can take to help your
plants and vegetables to
survive. Mulching helps to
protect the roots at night you
can put hessian, straw tepees
or lightweight frost cover over
plants that may be damaged
by frost.
Plants are better able to cope
if they are strong and healthy.
If you regularly feed and
27
www.sasmallholder.co.za
to their needs during the
growing season, they will be
healthy and strong going into
winter. There is strong
evidence that potassium
(potash) strengthens plant
cells, so you can fertilize your
garden with 3:1:5 late in the
summer to provide extra
potassium before the winter
cold.
It is important to be aware of
Continued on page 29