Local nurseries rush to prepare for cold weather

ORLANDO, Fla. — For nurseries, cold weather means taking extra effort to protect their livelihoods.

At Palmer’s Garden and Goods, the impending cold weather has meant extra precautions to protect its business from the forthcoming freeze.

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Read: Weather Alert Day: Wind chill to keep temps in the 30s, 40s in Central Florida

“It makes us a little nervous but we always prepare,” owner Allison Palmer said.

She and other employees have been bringing sensitive plants inside and covering others before the cold makes its way through Central Florida.

Read: 9 tips to help your outdoor plants survive cold Florida weather

Experts say that to protect plants at home, a little preparation before and after a freeze can help your plants weather the cold.

• Move small plants in containers indoors.
  
• Water around plants before the freeze. Wet soil will absorb more heat during the day and radiate it during the night.
  
• Use coverings to protect plants from frost. Don’t let the covering touch plants since that can take heat away from the plant.
  
• After the freeze, remove any dead leaves once they turn brown. Save any severe pruning until after new growth appears.
  

Read: Central Florida counties open cold weather shelters as front brings freezing temperatures

More tips to help your outdoor plants survive cold Florida weather can be found here.

Weather Alert Day: Wind chill to keep temps in the 30s, 40s in Central Florida (WFTV)

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