With periods of extreme cold possible during winter, local gardeners are being encouraged to take steps now to protect plants from freeze damage.

Members of the Starkville Town and Country Garden Club recently shared practical tips for helping landscapes withstand sudden temperature drops. Garden club member Dawn Herring, a freelance garden writer and former owner of Boardtown Garden Center, said many homeowners prepare for cold weather by protecting pipes and stocking water, but often overlook their plants.

Sudden freezes can stress or damage plants, particularly when temperatures drop quickly, Herring said. Reducing stress before cold weather arrives can help plants better tolerate extreme conditions.

Tips for protecting plants during cold weather include:

■ Water early: Watering in the morning during winter can help soil retain warmth during the day, offering some insulation for plant roots. Recent rainfall may reduce the need for additional watering, but dry, stressed plants are more vulnerable to cold damage.

■ Remove saucers: Saucers under potted plants should be removed to prevent water from collecting and freezing, which can damage roots and crack clay containers.

■ Move potted plants: Plants grown in containers are more susceptible to freezing temperatures. When possible, moving pots into a garage or sheltered area can offer protection. Wrapping containers with bubble wrap or similar insulation may also help.

■ Add mulch: Applying mulch or pine straw around the base of plants helps insulate roots. Semi-hardy plants may benefit from an extra layer during cold snaps.

■ Cover plants: Larger plants and shrubs can be protected with frost cloth, horticultural fleece, or household items such as sheets, blankets or tarps.

Herring said she plans to cover her winter bedding plants, including snapdragons and dusty miller, when temperatures drop. While some winter-hardy plants can tolerate cold, added protection can help prevent damage.

“Don’t procrastinate,” Herring said. “Move plants and containers to safer locations now rather than waiting until temperatures drop.”

Herring holds a bachelor’s degree in horticulture and a master’s degree in agricultural extension education and communications from Mississippi State University.

Founded in 1965, the Starkville Town and Country Garden Club provides educational programs for members and shares gardening information with the community through workshops and outreach efforts.