BBC Gardeners’ World Magazine Podcast What To Do Now - Protect tender plants
Nov 3, 2025
Discover the hidden dangers of cold and wet conditions for tender plants. Learn essential tips for lifting and storing tubers like dahlias to keep them protected through winter. Explore the importance of heavy mulch for roots and effective wrapping techniques for larger plants. Finally, Oliver shares practical pot-protection strategies and drainage advice to ensure your plants survive until spring.
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Cold Plus Wet Is The Real Threat
- Cold combined with wet is often more damaging than frost alone.
- Keeping plants dry can let them tolerate lower temperatures than soggy freezing conditions.
Bring Pots Under Cover Promptly
- Move potted tender plants under cover as soon as frost is possible.
- Use a frost-free greenhouse, conservatory, cold frame or porch to keep frost off without overheating plants.
Lift And Store Tubers Correctly
- Lift and store tuberous plants like dahlias after the first frost blackens foliage.
- Keep tubers cool, dry and frost-free in trays of dry compost, sand or newspaper to avoid rot.