Gardening 101: Frost resistant vegetables and protection from frost

We are still under the risk of frost in my area - In fact we are still at least 2 weeks before the last Spring frost day here. A few of my friends are surprised that I have started my vegetable garden a few weeks ago (2 to be exact).


The key to be able to do so is good planning and a risky spirit!! First of all make sure that you only plant frost resistant vegetables, and second that you tend them well and keep them safe on chili frosty nights.


Here is the list of frost resistant vegetables that you can plant - click on the link on each vegetable to see how to plant them (or at least how I did it this season):


- Broccoli (from seedlings - I will plant them this week)

- Onions (From sets)

- Lettuce (from seeds or seedlings)

- Beets (from seeds)

- Peas (from seeds or seedlings)

- strawberries (plants)

- spring onions (from sets)

- carrots (from seeds)

- potatoes (from tubers)

- spinach (from seeds)

- cabbage (from seeds) - I am not planting

- swiss chard (from seeds) - I am not planting

- arugula ( from seeds or seedlings)


I check the weather report for my area everyday to see if frost is expected, if so, you can take some precautions (although the plants above will be OK).

Plastic covers: You can covered your vegetables with plastic sheets (make sure the plastic does not touch the plant)

Leaves: you can cover the vegetables with dry leaves (I always keep a few around)

Plastic soda or milk bottles: My favourite method as it is so easy. Cut the bottle and put on top of the plant. Remove during the day and cover the vegetables at night. I use the bottom of the bottle upside down. Some people like to use the part with the cap and put the cap up at night and remove during the day - I find that too labor intensive. I rather remove the whole thing and keep it next to the plant during the day.

Blankets: Make sure that they are supported by some poles as they can squish your plants and if it rains they can also let the plants get too cold.

Have fun and be daring!