Freeze Recovery Update
Our area did experience a freeze, and some landscape damage is expected. While freeze events of this severity are uncommon in our region, recovery is possible for many plants — if handled correctly.
The most important thing right now is patience. Improper cleanup or premature pruning can cause more damage than the freeze itself.
What to Do — and What Not to Do
Do Not Prune Yet
According to UF/IFAS guidance, damaged foliage often protects living tissue beneath it. Pruning too early can expose plants to additional cold injury and delay recovery. Even plants that look dead may still be alive below the surface.
Do Not Fertilize
Fertilizing now forces new growth at the worst possible time. Tender growth is extremely vulnerable if temperatures dip again. Fertilization should wait until plants show consistent signs of recovery.
Wait Before Judging Plant Loss
Cold-damaged plants frequently recover slowly. Many will re-leaf from the base or along stems once temperatures stabilize. UF/IFAS recommends waiting until warmer weather reveals which tissue is truly dead before taking action.
Clean Up Fallen Debris
As freeze-damaged leaves drop naturally, removing them helps prevent fungal and bacterial issues from developing around stressed plants.
Water Properly — When Conditions Improve
Once soils warm and temperatures remain above freezing, deep watering can support root recovery. Avoid overwatering cold or saturated soil.
Mulch After the Soil Warms
Mulch helps regulate soil temperature and moisture, but it is most effective once the ground begins warming and plants move out of shock.
Plants Most Affected
- Annuals are typically the first and hardest hit
- Tropical and semi-tropical plants (including Clusia and similar species) are more prone to cold injury
- Our region’s position between hardiness zones means some commonly used plants are naturally less cold-tolerant
What Our Team Is Doing
We are continuing to monitor landscapes as conditions improve and will evaluate plant health at the appropriate time — not before. Our approach follows UF/IFAS best practices to avoid unnecessary removals and long-term damage.
Some plants may recover fully. Others may need corrective pruning or replacement later in the season. Each landscape will be assessed individually.
If you have questions about specific plants or concerns about your property, please contact your account manager.
Freeze events are disruptive, but thoughtful recovery — not rushed decisions — delivers the best long-term results.
Resources:
How to Help Your Zone 10B Garden Recover from Freeze Damage