Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
pests. The following list includes common items and how you can use
them:
•
Cardboard box.
Place the box over a plant to keep it from getting too
cold at night.
•
Metal cans.
Large tomato cans or coffee cans are ideal to protect a
plant from the cold or pests. Remove both ends of the can and place it
gently over the plant. You can leave the can on during the day; the sun
will still be able to reach the plant.
•
Wooden boards.
Pieces of wood can be used to block excessive wind
or sun.
•
Paper bags.
Place a paper bag over a young seedling to protect it from
the cold. Wind can blow a bag away and rain can cause it to disinteg-
rate, so only use this method on cold, clear nights.
•
Plastic containers.
Yogurt containers, milk jugs, and large water
bottles can protect young seedlings from the cold or even from slugs.
Remove both ends of the container and firmly place it into the soil
around the young plant to prevent slugs from reaching the plant. A
clear plastic container can be used as a mini greenhouse for plants that
like a little extra warmth; just be careful not to let the plants get too hot.
•
Sheets.
Throw your old bed sheets over your vegetable patch on a cold
spring night. They are light enough that they won't damage the plant,
yet they will still provide adequate protection.
•
Plastic sheeting.
Plastic sheeting is best used over a structure of
either wood or plastic hoops to protect your plants. Create a greenhouse
or cold frame to protect your plants.
•
Floating row covers.
This material can be easily purchased at any
garden center or from most seed catalogs. It is lightweight and will let
in some light and water while it protects your plants from the heat, cold,
and pests. It is light enough to be laid directly over your plants or it can
be attached to plastic or wooden poles to make a shelter.
