Home > Projects >

How to Protect Containers

You will need: Bubble-wrap, String, Newspaper, Plastic-bag

While the tops of container plants may be quite hardy the roots are vulnerable to frost. Here are some easy steps you can take to protect them in cold weather.

Best time to do it:

Step 1

Tie a double layer of bubble-wrap polythene around the pot to give a layer of insulation against several degrees of frost.

Step 2

For more protection stand the container in a plastic bag...

Step 3

...and fill with crumpled newspaper to create a thick insulating layer...

Step 4

...tie the top loosely with string or a platic tie. Keep the plastic off the leaves as it can freeze to them causing cell damage. Never cover the plant with plastic.

Related FAQs

Ask a gardening question:

Latest Gardening News

Bloom and Brilliance: The 2026 Harrogate Spring Flower Show

Royal Horticultural Society shares plants for birds as feeding advice changes

STIGA secures triple victory for Robotic Innovations and Digital Experience

Rhododendrons for non-acid soils

Gardening Projects for May

---

How to care for Camellias

Hows to take Leaf Cuttings

How to: New orchids from old

How to: Lily Scaling

Latest Gardening Videos

---

Potting Cacti

Training Sweet Peas

Moving House and Taking the Garden with You | Garden Ideas | Val Bradley

How to tie gooseberries and redcurrants

Is it safe to compost rhubarb leaves?

Five Essential Tips for Growing Lemons

All Videos

Explore Gardens from Around the World

Kenrokuen Garden
Kanazawa, Ishikawa, Japan

Humble Administrator's Garden
Suzhou, China

Royal Botanic Garden Sydney
Sydney, Australia

Longwood Gardens
Pennsylvania, USA

Dubai Miracle Garden
Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Desert Botanical Garden
Phoenix, Arizona, USA