Can I use household items instead of specialized frost cloth?

Written by
Benjamin Miller
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Many common household items can serve as substitutes for specialized frost cloth in a pinch. *Cotton bedsheets* and *blankets* can suffice for light frost protection. Cardboard boxes provide sufficient insulation for potted plants. Steer clear of plastic bags that can retain moisture next to the leaves. Old comforters have served me well for many years.
Fabric selection is based on weight and breathability. Cotton sheets are best used when the plants are double-covered. A wool blanket will insulate more effectively, but cannot be supported solely by plant support. Cardboard boxes will need ventilation holes to let out excess air and condensation. Never use plastic under a plant without a fabric covering underneath.
Bed Sheet Application
- Use queen/full size for medium shrubs
- Drape loosely to avoid foliage contact
- Secure edges with bricks or rocks
Cardboard Box Setup
- Cut ventilation flaps on sides
- Elevate off ground with sticks
- Weight down corners against wind
Blanket Fortification
- Layer over cardboard for extra warmth
- Use clothespins to join multiple blankets
- Remove when temperatures exceed 45°F
Improper materials lead to typical problems. For example, plastic bags will freeze right onto the leaves! Newspaper or cardboard disintegrates when the materials are wet. I used burlap coffee sacks once successfully, but I rinsed them first. Test whatever materials you use before depending on them for essential protection.
Utilize household items to achieve better results. Put water jugs inside cardboard boxes. Drape blankets over plants covered with sheets. These methods are merely different ways to add a few degrees of protection during unusual cold-weather events. If you store your supplies dry between uses, they should last a long time.
When to Upgrade Protection. Household items are effective down to 30°F (-1°C). When it hits below that, use a commercial frost cloth. If prolonged cold periods occur, consider purchasing a specialized frost cover to protect your plants. Pay attention to a protection level that is appropriate for the frost severity in your climate.
Read the full article: How to Protect Plants from Frost Effectively