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Millie Durback, brand manager at Prestige Flowers, suggested a warm brew is the “secret weapon” against the winter chill.
She explained: “Tea, especially caffeine-free varieties like chamomile or rooibos, contains tannins that toughen plant cell walls, making them more resilient in the cold.
“It’s a natural defence mechanism against frost and snow that many gardeners overlook.
“Just make sure it’s sweetened and without milk to avoid any negative effects on the soil.”
Tea leaves can also help the garden to thrive as they are enriched with nitrogen which helps plants to grow.
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Make sure not to throw away used tea bags either as they can come in as a handy fertiliser because of their tannic acid.
Another way to stop the snow from damaging plants is to cover them with a special type of blanket.
Millie said: “Think of it as tucking your plants in for a cosy winter nap.
“Use burlap or landscape fabric strategically placed around the beds to create a protective barrier.
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“It acts as an insulator, safeguarding your flowers and plants from strong winds and retaining some of the ground’s natural warmth.”
She added that putting down an additional layer of straw or hay can provide extra protection for your plants during the winter months.
“Adding a covering of straw or hay not only offers an extra layer of insulation but becomes a reliable shield, protecting plants from unpredictable temperature fluctuations,” Millie said.
For any potted plants, it’s important to raise them off the ground to prevent them from becoming too frozen.
The plant pro noted: “Place your pots on bricks or blocks to avoid direct contact with the freezing soil. This helps in lowering the risk of root damage.
“Go a step further by wrapping the pots with bubble wrap or foam insulation. It adds an extra layer of protection, keeping the roots in a stable environment.”
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Plants which store water in their leaves, such as succulents, should be brought inside during the winter because the excess moisture makes them susceptible to freezing temperatures.
The expert continued: “Giving these plants a nice spot indoors shields them from the cold and makes sure they stay healthy until it gets warmer again.”
“Creating a snowbank shelter around outdoor flowers has proven to be another effective method of protection.
“As snow accumulates, gently mound it around the base of your plants, forming a protective barrier.
“Snow is an excellent insulator, and this makeshift snowbank can shield your flowers from the winter elements and help them emerge vibrant and renewed come springtime.”
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