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snow-covered shrub being assessed for garden recovery

Alabama Gulf Coast residents have just experienced an extraordinary snow event, with 7 to 9 inches blanketing the area. While the snow has created a winter wonderland, it also raises concerns for gardens, plants, and trees that are not accustomed to such conditions.

It may be tempting to rush into the garden to rescue plants, but patience is essential. Wait until conditions are safe before going outside. Be cautious, as tree branches may break under the weight of the snow and melting snow and ice from trees may fall on unsuspecting gardeners. Additionally, take care to avoid slipping as snow melts and refreezes into sheets of ice.

Evaluating the Impact of Snow and Ice on Plants and Trees

Snow and ice can have surprising effects on the garden. Summer and early fall plants, such as peppers and zinnias, will not survive snow or freezing conditions. However, many plants have adapted to cold temperatures through dormancy or other evolutionary mechanisms. For example, the Eastern redbud can tolerate temperatures as low as 15 degrees Fahrenheit during the winter.

On the Alabama Gulf Coast, where winters are typically mild, many plants are not well-adapted to prolonged freezing temperatures, which makes them more susceptible to damage during extreme cold. It is essential to evaluate your plants after snow and freezing temperatures have subsided to assess their condition and develop a plan to support your garden recovery.

Snow Assessment

Snowfall may cover plants or shrubs completely. However, the trouble comes when snow melts and freezing temperatures return, as ice formation can cause significant damage to plants.

  • Do not shake snow or ice off plants aggressively. Gently brush heavy snow off branches to prevent breakage. Ice-covered plants should be left alone, as attempting to remove ice may cause damage.
  • Check plants after the snow and ice have melted. Freezing temperatures cause water inside plant cells to freeze and expand, breaking the cell walls. When temperatures rise, the ice melts, leaving holes in the cell walls that allow water to escape, resulting in tissue death. Some plants have protection mechanisms — such as going dormant and dropping leaves, producing natural compounds (for example collard greens), or having a thick waxy layer that withstands lower temperatures.
  • Inspect leaves for damage after the snow melts. Healthy leaves may look healthy under freezing conditions but will eventually show damage afterwards. Dead leaves appear rotten, often turning dark green with a mushy texture. Remove dead leaves from vegetables or plants and any soft, dead tissue. Check the roots as well.

Evaluating Plant Survival

Trees and Shrubs

Trees and shrubs differ from vegetable crops or flowers. You will not know the extent of the damage until spring.

Do not prune heavily at this time. The following aspects are worth consideration after a cold or snow event.

  • If trees have structural damage or leaning trunks, a Certified Arborist for a Tree Risk Assessment (TRA). Visit treesaregood.org to find one in your area.
  • Wait until spring growth begins to determine which parts of the tree or shrub are dead. Premature pruning may remove live tissue that the plant needs for recovery.
  • As plants emerge in the spring, inspect trees for insect activity. Boring insects like ambrosia beetles are common. Evidence will include sawdust around the base of trees, toothpicks like frass protruding from stems and small holes.
  • Inspect buds and stems. Firm buds and flexible stems indicate survival. Dry, brittle branches are likely dead.

Winter Vegetables

Winter vegetables have different reactions to freezing temperatures or snow. The following list includes both preparation and recovery pointers for vegetable crops.snow-covered yard

  • Leafy greens. Kale and spinach may survive under snow. Check for damage and remove slimy or rotting leaves.
  • Cool-season crops. Collard greens, cabbages, onions, and broccoli can tolerate brief freezing but may show signs of lightly burned foliage. When possible, harvest semi-hardy vegetables like lettuce before the freeze.
  • Root crops. Carrots, radishes, and turnips require heavy mulching to prevent freeze damage. Milk jugs with the tops cut out can be used to cover vulnerable vegetables prior to a frost when possible.
  • Dormant perennials. Snow likely protected dormant perennials. After the snow melts, inspect plant crowns.
  • Tropical or tender plants. These are most vulnerable and will require special attention after the temperatures return to a normal level. When preparing for a freeze event, cover the plants but understand that some losses may occur. Move container plants indoors or place them near structures for wind protection and wrap them with burlap or sheets to reduce heat loss.

Care After the Cold

  • Fertilizing. Do not fertilize stressed plants until active growth resumes in the spring, as applying fertilizer too early may damage roots.
  • Mulching. Add a fresh layer of mulch after the soil thaws to retain moisture and regulate temperatures.
  • Drainage. As the snow melts, the soil will become saturated. Ensure proper drainage to avoid waterlogging.
  • Soil compaction. Snow weight can compact the soil, especially in beds and pathways. Aerate compacted soil in spring to improve root health.
  • Remove covers. Once temperatures rise above freezing, remove all covers to prevent overheating or additional stress on plants.
  • Future preparedness. Keep frost blankets and mulch ready for future extreme cold. Use lightweight cloth materials like bed sheets or floating row covers to trap warm air and prevent freezing.

Enjoy the beauty of the snowy landscape while it lasts and take care as your garden transitions through this unusual event. For more information on preparing your garden for future cold temperatures and other garden topics, visit www.aces.edu