Most ornamental grasses, other than pampas grass, turn brown and go dormant for the winter. Feel free to cut them back hard when the foliage is no longer attractive. With their flower plumes and graceful foliage, though, many gardeners like the way ornamental grasses look when dormant; leave them if you find them appealing. Make sure to cut them back by early March at the latest, however, to make way for new growth.
- Open flowers of camellias can be damaged by temperatures below freezing, but the buds are generally not damaged. They will bloom normally later on.
- Be extra careful when using electric space heaters to heat home greenhouses and garages or sheds where plants are stored. Plants should be located well away from the heaters along with any other flammable materials. Use heavy-duty extension cords that are free from damage. Use caution when watering plants. Electric heaters must be unplugged until the area is dry. The heat generated by electric heaters is much more effective when it is circulated, so it’s a good idea to have a fan running to move the air around.
- Varieties of certain shrubs, such as azaleas, nandinas and junipers, will develop a purplish or burgundy tint to their foliage during cold weather. This is natural and no cause for worry. They will turn green again in the spring.
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