Avoid a ‘wet, brown and lifeless’ garden by removing five frost-hating plants now

Avoid a ‘wet, brown and lifeless’ garden by removing five frost-hating plants now (Image: Getty)

Flower specialist Angela DeMaio from Bouquet Casting Co has shared insight on which plants should be removed from your garden now.

This is ahead of the frost to ensure it doesn’t leave the garden “wet, brown and lifeless”.

Though winter might seem like a time for gardens to hibernate, many summer-blooming plants and decorative plants will be kept outside.

However, some plants are especially vulnerable to the colder months, according to the pro.

That’s why the expert has shared which flowers are most at risk and how acting now could save them.

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1. Marigolds

The expert said: “Marigolds, known for their vibrant orange and yellow blooms, are garden favourites for a reason. However, they’re incredibly sensitive to frost.

“Just one cold snap could leave your marigolds wilted and browned beyond saving. Pluck them from the garden as the chill sets in and take the opportunity to save their seeds for planting next year.”

2. Zinnias

According to the expert, these plants “won’t survive even a touch of frost”, so gardeners should collect their seeds now.

This way, your favourite colours can return once warmer days have returned next year.

3. Nasturtiums

These cheerful, edible plants are both decorative and delicious, adding a pop of colour to gardens through late summer.

However, they’re notorious for hating the frost, and just one frosty spell could be the end for these flowers.

Bring them indoors or compost them if they’re looking past their time.

4. Begonias

The flower pro explained: “Begonia with their lush, fleshy leaves and vibrant flowers, are popular additions in many UK gardens and window boxes. Unfortunately, they don’t stand up to frost well.

“These plants can start to rot quickly in wet, cold weather,” and so should be brought inside if they’re potted.

5. Petunias

Another much-loved garden plant is petunias, known for their rich colours and cascading blooms.

They’re very tender, however, and won’t withstand freezing temperatures, so they should be lifted from beds and containers.