Preparing Your Landscaping and Irrigation for a Frost/Freeze in the Lowcountry
When cold weather sweeps through the Lowcountry, property managers must take proactive steps to protect their landscaping and irrigation systems. While frosts and freezes are relatively rare in South Carolina’s coastal areas, they can still wreak havoc on plants, turf, and irrigation infrastructure if left unprepared.
Here’s your guide to safeguarding your property’s outdoor spaces against the chill.
Why Frost Preparation Matters
In the Lowcountry, frost damage often occurs because of our mild winters, which leave landscaping and irrigation systems unaccustomed to extreme cold. A single frost can:
Damage sensitive plants, especially tropical or warm-weather species.
Burst irrigation pipes, leading to costly repairs.
Harm turfgrass and shrubs, impacting the overall aesthetic and health of your property.
Steps to Protect Your Landscaping
1. Identify Vulnerable Plants
Focus on tropical plants, flowers, or young trees that are more susceptible to cold.
Use a landscape map to locate high-priority areas that require attention.
2. Apply Mulch
Add a layer of mulch around the base of plants and shrubs to insulate roots and conserve warmth.
Choose materials like pine straw or wood chips for optimal insulation.
3. Cover Plants
Use frost blankets, burlap, or lightweight fabric to shield plants from frost.
Avoid using plastic, which can trap moisture and cause freeze damage.
Secure coverings with stakes or rocks to prevent them from blowing away.
4. Prune Carefully
Avoid heavy pruning before a freeze. Dead growth can provide an extra layer of protection to plants.
Preparing Your Irrigation System
1. Drain and Winterize
Shut off the water supply to your irrigation system before a freeze.
Drain water from pipes, valves, and backflow preventers to prevent freezing and cracking.
2. Insulate Exposed Components
Wrap backflow preventers, valves, and above-ground pipes with foam insulation or specialized covers.
Use heavy-duty zip ties or duct tape to secure the insulation.
3. Adjust Irrigation Schedules
Turn off your irrigation system during freezing weather to avoid ice formation on plants and walkways.
Resume watering schedules once the frost threat has passed.
Actionable Checklist for Property Managers
✅ Identify and protect frost-sensitive plants.
✅ Apply a fresh layer of mulch to exposed areas.
✅ Cover vulnerable plants with frost blankets or fabric.
✅ Shut off and drain irrigation systems before temperatures drop.
✅ Insulate all exposed irrigation components.
Stay Ahead of Frosts with Pleasant Places
At Pleasant Places, we understand how vital well-maintained landscapes are for your property’s curb appeal and safety. Our seasonal maintenance programs ensure your landscaping and irrigation systems are prepared for any weather the Lowcountry brings.
