Even though we rarely see snow in Florida, those unexpected cold snaps can still make your trees shiver. Sudden dips in temperature can stress leaves, damage buds, and slow growth. A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your landscape healthy and happy.
Know Your Tree’s Hardiness
Not all trees handle the cold equally. Florida-friendly favorites like live oak, magnolia, and crape myrtle shrug off a chill without complaint. More tropical species like palms, hibiscus, and citrus, on the other hand, can be surprisingly sensitive. Knowing which trees are tough and which need extra care helps you focus your efforts where they really matter.
Mulch for the Win
A 2–4 inch layer of mulch around the base of your trees is like a cozy winter blanket for their roots. It keeps soil insulated, retains moisture, and helps regulate temperature. Keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk to avoid rot or pests. During a cold snap, adding a little extra mulch is an easy way to give sensitive trees a boost of warmth.
Cover and Wrap
For small to medium trees, blankets, frost cloths, or burlap can be lifesavers. Draping them over your tree overnight shields leaves and buds from frost. Skip plastic directly on foliage—it traps ice and can cause more damage than the cold itself. For palms and other tropical varieties, wrap the trunk and tuck the fronds gently under a frost cloth to protect against freezing winds.
Water Wisely
Moist soil holds heat better than dry soil, so a good deep watering before a cold snap can help roots weather the chill. Just don’t go overboard—too much water can freeze and damage roots. Think Goldilocks: not too dry, not too wet, just right.
Prune at the Right Time
Avoid heavy pruning just before a cold spell. Fresh cuts are more vulnerable to frost damage. Hold off until late winter or early spring, when the threat of freezing temps has passed.
Know When to Call for Help
For large trees or extra-sensitive species, professional help is worth considering. Arborists can provide wraps, insulation, and expert guidance tailored to Florida’s subtropical winters—so you can protect your trees without breaking your back.
Final Thoughts
Even Florida trees need a little TLC when cold weather strikes. With mulch, coverings, proper watering, and smart pruning, you can minimize damage, keep blooms intact, and enjoy a healthy landscape all year. A little preparation now means your trees will thank you when the warm weather returns.
Liberty Landscape Supply is Northeast Florida’s full-service garden center and landscape partner with four retail locations serving Jacksonville (North Main Street and San Jose Boulevard), Fernandina Beach, and St. Augustine, plus delivery across the region. From plants, trees, soil, mulch, rock, and gravel to hardscapes, pottery, lighting, irrigation, design support, and expert advice, Liberty helps homeowners and pros plan, shop, and install with confidence — making landscape projects easy.
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