Gardening preparation tips for the approaching first frost

As the first frost approaches, gardeners are advised to take specific preparatory steps to protect their plants. It is important to distinguish between a frost, where ground-level temperatures hit 32°F, and a freeze, where air temperatures drop below that threshold, potentially destroying unprotected gardens.

To protect tender vegetable crops, gardeners can use cloth or heavyweight frost cloth to cover rows and raised beds. This method traps heat rising from the ground. Alternatively, harvesting final crops before the frost arrives is a viable option for those finishing their season.

Regarding perennials, the decision to prune depends on the specific species and the plant's condition. While some gardeners may feel inclined to cut everything back immediately, many perennials can have their foliage left intact until late winter or early spring. However, foliage showing signs of disease or fungal growth should be removed and discarded rather than composted to prevent spreading issues.