When to reach for the fleece
A quick guide to frost protection for October
Frost is the biggest threat to Aeoniums in the UK. In some areas the first frosts come in early October, and the average first frost arrives around 6 November. We would rather have the fleece ready a few weeks early than go looking for it on a cold evening.
The 5°C rule
We put fleece on whenever the forecast drops to 5°C or below. Light ground frost can occur at that temperature, and we have noticed the risk of frost goes up from there. From October, check the forecast often.
What to cover first
Young plants and tender varieties suffer first, so they go under fleece first. That means Aeonium tabuliforme and variegated Aeoniums such as Aeonium 'Sunburst'. Aeonium 'Phoenix Flame' and Aeonium 'Emerald Flame' can survive down to -6 or -7°C, so they can wait a little longer.
Putting it on
Cut the fleece to size and drape it loosely over the plants, so some air still gets through. Pressed tight against the leaves, it can break them.
- Pin the edges down with pegs or stones. Even a slight gust can lift fleece enough to expose the plants.
- Put hoops or stakes under the fleece to make a frame for larger plants.
- On colder nights, use two layers and leave no gaps for cold air to get through.
Taking it off again
Once the sun is on the plants, take the fleece off so they can breathe. If frost lasts all day and the forecast stays at 5°C or below, leave it on. It can stay on for days at a time with little effect on the plants, but let them see some sun when the weather allows.
Fleece also shields plants from rain and hail. It works best dry, so if it gets soaked, dry it out before you rely on it again.
We use our own 60g/m² horticultural fleece, which is four times heavier than the fleece sold in garden centres. Two layers in dry conditions protect plants down to -10°C. At the end of winter, wash it, dry it and store it for next year.
Our Ultimate Aeonium Winter Care Guide has much more on keeping Aeoniums through the cold.