As cooler temperatures approach, Nashville gardeners are being urged to prepare their plants for the first freeze. Neil Anderson, general manager of Gardens of Babylon in downtown Nashville, offered a series of straightforward steps to safeguard both indoor and outdoor greenery.

Bring tropical and houseplants indoors early

Anderson recommends moving any houseplants or tropical specimens that have been outdoors inside before temperatures dip below freezing, and ideally before they fall under 40 °F. This pre‑emptive move helps prevent cold damage to sensitive foliage.

Water containers before and after a freeze

For hardy potted plants that will stay outside, Anderson advises watering the containers before a freeze and checking them again afterward. “Plants will actually dehydrate themselves to protect them from a freeze, and if you don’t add water after a freeze, that’s when plants start to experience drought stress in the winter,” he explained.

Cut back dormant perennials

Plants such as hostas and peonies, which are entering dormancy, should be cut back to soil level. Grasses and coneflowers can remain standing until late winter or early spring, around February or March, before being trimmed.

Extend the vegetable garden season

Gardeners hoping to stretch tomato harvests through Thanksgiving can cover plants during cold snaps. Anderson also noted that cool‑season vegetables like kale, lettuce and spinach can be grown throughout winter when protected with frost cloth, plastic, or a combination of both.

Use the slower months for reflection

The winter period offers a chance to review the past growing season. Anderson encourages gardeners to jot down notes on what succeeded and what didn’t, so next year’s planting can start with a solid plan.

By following these simple measures, Nashville residents can keep their gardens healthy and productive despite the chill, ensuring a vibrant landscape when spring returns.

Original reporting: NewsChannel 5 WTVF (Scripps) – local — read the source article.