Though it might be hard to remember now that we are being bathed in sunshine, untimely late frosts in many regions this spring – even if only ground frosts – cut dahlias and potatoes back to soil level and nip young shoots, particularly of vines.
Scorched plants will usually recover, but flowering will be delayed and yields down – though cutting out damaged shoots will help recovery.
Planting or sowing later, or covering with cloches, cold frames or fleece, ideally biodegradable, are worth considering next year. A smattering of soil over emerging potato leaves is usually enough to fend off frost.
Gardens surrounded by tall trees are particularly vulnerable, as the trees lose heat on clear, chilly nights and the cold air flows down the tree and accumulates at ground level.
Cold air also flows downhill and into valley-bottom gardens, while hedges or fences across a slope cause cold air to pool behind them.
