If a freeze is expected pull mulch away from plantings and water thoroughly the night the cold front is expected. The soil will release heat in the air and can create a warm area near the plants. Bring tender potted plants inside. Cover tender outside plants with a sheet or light blanket. Do not use plastic to cover plants.
Water has a warming effect and can protect plants from freezing.
The southeast coast of Lake Okeechobee is noticeably warmer than other parts of the lakes shore. In Broward county and other areas on the southeast coast the gulf stream has a noticeable warming effect. Be careful when using tropical plants inland as they can be frozen or killed by freezes or frosts. One basic thing to remember is that spring is fall and fall is spring. We plant vegetables and annuals in October and they finish off in April-May.