However, when frost is forecast, cover sensitive plants with tarps, sheet plastic, grocery bags, blankets, etc. Uncover plants as soon as possible after the sun has come up and the temperature is above freezing. If discoloration on narrow-leafed evergreen needles is not severe, they may regain their color or produce new foliage. Broad-leafed evergreens showing leaf damage will usually produce new leaves if branches and vegetative leaf buds were not injured. Damaged leaves may drop before leaves form.
People can make the difference in how much winter damage their trees and shrubs sustain.
Nevada gardeners can prevent winter injury to their perennial plants. Break up caliche layers and hardpans prior to planting. Locate plants to avoid freezing, drying, winter winds and direct sun. Maintain plants in good vigor during the growing season. Replenish soil moisture before the ground freezes, but after the plants have gone dormant.