Late Frost Protection 2026: Save Your Seedlings

The Met Office has confirmed overnight frosts on 18 nights in southern England this April—nearly double the 30-year average. If you have tender seedlings outdoors, they're at serious risk.

Why This Matters Now

Frost damage occurs when ice crystals form inside plant cells, rupturing cell walls. Young seedlings are particularly vulnerable because their cell walls are thin and water content is high. A single frost can destroy weeks of careful cultivation overnight.

How Frosts Destroy Plants

Tender plants like tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and basil begin suffering at just 2°C. Hardy vegetables survive to -5°C, but most ornamental seedlings won't survive a hard frost without protection.

Tools Needed

• Horticultural fleece (25gsm for -3°C protection, 50gsm for severe cold)
• Cloches or bell covers for individual plants
• Cold frame or greenhouse for tender specimens
• Thermometer to monitor minimum temperatures
• Bubble wrap for container plants