Though the cold and wet lingered a bit longer than desired, Spring on the Lot seemed to be more “normal” than last season. The weather has gradually warmed and perennial plants are making their way up out of the ground. Even the balloon flower, one of the last plants out of bed in the spring, has emerged. However, this past weekend called for plunging temperatures and a chance of frost Sunday evening.

Awww Sheet

Time to break out the bed sheets! Around this time the veggie beds have new plant shoots. There are many suggestions to prevent frost damage to a small garden, but the most successful method to date on the Lot is the use of bedsheets.

The 4’x4′ vegetable beds can be covered perfectly by a twin bed-sized, fitted sheet. This traps any heat in the soil of the bed underneath the sheet and around the plants. If the sheet is not fitted, bricks or weights can be placed on the edges of the sheet to create the covering.

Another Option

In addition, we’ve also used empty plant pots for frost protection. In past seasons, late season frosts have zapped some newly emerged perennials on the Lot like the tender fern fiddleheads. By simply placing the pots upside down over the plants so the pot covers the plant and the rim sets on the soil, the same pocket-type of protection is formed. First thing in the morning, all coverings are removed from the plants.

Over the weekend, Ms. A and I gallivanted around the city for our annual nursery crawl. Even though I purchased some great basil plants, the little starter herbs will be staying inside will the Other Half and I for a few more weeks. Plants like peppers and tomatoes will be purchased closer to Memorial Day since we do not have room to protect the plants indoors. Then the growing season will be in full swing!