Temperatures are expected to drop into the 30s Saturday night, with some low-lying areas possibly hitting the freezing mark by early Sunday morning, according to weather forecasts.
Residents with sensitive outdoor vegetation are being urged to take precautions to protect their plants from potential frost. Anna Barnett, an agent with the Fulton County Extension Service, provided tips to minimize plant damage during overnight freezes.
Barnett advises against covering plants with plastic that directly touches the leaves, as this can conduct cold and cause leaf burn. She recommends placing coverings over supports, such as wire tomato cages, stakes, or hoops, to create space between the material and the plants. This setup helps prevent leaves from freezing due to direct contact with the covering.
Temperatures near freezing can cause harm to plants, particularly in rural or low-lying areas that are more prone to colder microclimates. The precautionary measures suggested by Barnett are intended to reduce the risk of damage from frost or freezing conditions.
Gardeners in the affected areas are encouraged to plan accordingly to safeguard their plants ahead of the expected temperature drop.