Helping Plants Injured By Recent Cold Temperatures

SPRINGFIELD -- Recent cold temperatures may have injured plants in home landscapes, according to Patrick Byers, horticulture specialist, University of Missouri Extension.

What measures can individuals take now or later to help these injured plants?

"First of all, don't do anything at present. Wait until spring arrives and plants begin to grow. This is the best time to assess overall cold injury to plants," said Byers.

Then during the spring, prune only dead and severely damaged wood. Do not prune live wood. The larger the leaf surface area of the plant, the better it can manufacture food and grow new tissues. If fruit plants have injured flower buds, prune less than normal to compensate.

"Be sure to also water properly. Make sure the plant is not further damaged by drought. Pay special attention to evergreens and plants situated under eaves. Water properly throughout the spring, summer and fall," said Byers.

Fertilization is recommended if the soil lacks adequate amounts of basic plant nutrients.

On severely damaged fruit plants, remove as much of the developing fruit as possible to allow it to overcome the winter injury rather than produce fruit.

"The best thing you can do for your injured tree or shrub is to avoid further stress during the coming season by giving it special attention and care," said Byers.

For more information call University of Missouri Extension in Springfield at 417-881-8909 or go online to http://extension.missouri.edu/greene.

General News on 02/16/2017