Autumn brings chilly evenings. With a bit of luck we may enjoy good weather for our bonfire party, but it’s equally possible the first frost will make its appearance before that. Although there are many plants that don't mind too much about falling temperatures, the plants in your garden that do will need some safe shelter or a warm protective jacket.
An orangery for you and your plants
Who doesn't want a warm and sheltered garden spot with lots of windows so you can look out onto the outside world? A well-built orangery protects plants from the rain and bitter winds, and it’s also a great place to finish off the last autumn garden jobs with a hot cup of tea. Read all about overwintering in a conservatory, greenhouse or orangery.
Do it yourself
Don’t let a lack of resources stop you. You can make anything yourself, including a mini greenhouse where your plants can peacefully hibernate over the coming months without suffering a lack of light.
What does frost do?
Frost can cause damage: water expands when it freezes and that includes the moisture inside your plant. This causes tears and splits, and your plants can end up harmed. Frost damage can also be caused by a cold wind, and exposed plants in pots are at a much greater risk than plants in the soil. It's your job to protect them. Read all about it in the article frost and your outdoor plants.
Hibernating
An alternative is to let your plants stay with a grower during the winter. For this you pay a fixed amount per square meter. Google 'overwintering plant hotel' for an address in your area and make an appointment. You bring them away in mid-October. In the greenhouse they are treated as if they are in a plant spa. In the spring you get them back in top condition and with a growth advantage. How nice is that?
