Protect your plants from frost

MONTGOMERY CO., Ohio (WDTN) - A freeze warning is in effect for most of the Miami Valley until 9 a.m. Monday.

Experts warn the cooler temperatures could put plants at risk.

Rick Kossoudji is co-owner of North Dayton Garden Center.  He suggests placing a frost blanket on  tender foliage plants such as  geraniums and petunias.  A cloth, burlap or bed sheet will also suffice. 

Kossoudji said by mid-morning the cover should be off, especially if its a sunny day.

"If the sunlight is on the covered plants for too long it will build up the heat and most likely throw your plant out of whack," said Kossoudji.  

Kossoudji warns to not to panic if a plant's leaves begin to fall once it is brought inside. 

"Its simply part of the process," said Kossoudji.  "The plant is shedding.  Its important to keep monitoring and tending to the plant during the transition from outdoor to indoor."

Kossoudji suggests snipping away dead branches or foliage to help the plant's growth.  

"Make sure you turn your plant in the window atleast twice a week," said Kossoudji.  "It needs to adjust to its new winter location."