Extension Service Garden Hints

Landscape plants will show some effects of cold weather

Low fall and winter temperatures will have some adverse effect on several types of landscape plants, but permanent damage to the shrubs is unlikely, said Jan McNeilan, Oregon State University Extension Service consumer horticulture agent.

During cold snaps, broadleaf evergreens such as rhododendrons, camellias and evergreen azaleas are likely to develop brown, scorched-looking leaves, especially on the windward side. The brown leaves are caused by the plant's inability during sub-freezing weather to replace moisture dried out of the leaves by the wind.

Conifer evergreens, such as arborvitae and cypress, also will show a browning of the foliage.

The brown leaves can't be revived. However, McNeilan advises a mid-spring application of fertilizer to stimulate new growth. This may conceal brown foliage on the plant.

Camellias, rhododendrons and other broadleaf evergreens may have fewer flower blooms next spring if developing buds suffer freeze damage, McNeilan said.

By: Bob Rost
Source: Jan McNeilan

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