Everyday ingredient might be key to saving your plants as temperatures plummet

20 January 2024 , 07:57

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As temperatures dip, it can be tough time for gardeners to protect their plants (Image: Getty Images)

An everyday ingredient might hold the key to saving your plants as temperatures plummet during the winter months.

A wave of cold Arctic air has started off the UK's year, with large parts of the country covered with snow amid sub-zero conditions. And the wintry conditions can prove tough for gardeners as many plants are unable to survive, while others face a struggle to beat the elements.

But there is salvation for your garden in the form of an unexpected item in your kitchen cupboard. A simple garlic spray can protect your plants, according to the founder of Power Sheds, Jack Sutcliffe. He revealed the winter season is an ideal environment for pests such as ants and slugs to infiltrate garden plants, posing a threat to their growth potential come spring.

The strong aroma of garlic is a natural repellent for bothersome pests, and provides effective protection without causing harm to the plants. To get the best out of the qualities of garlic, simply blend it with a small amount of water to produce a spray that can be distributed across the entire garden.

The garlic-infused spray then acts as a barrier, deterring pests and ensuring the well-being of your plants, setting the stage for robust growth when spring arrives, reports The Express. Gardeners also prune climbing roses during the plant's non-flowering season so they can direct all their energy into producing new blooms. Pruning and shortening long shoots also prevents them from being damaged. Climbing roses can also be pruned in winter between December and February, according to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS)

Gales, snow and rain to batter country today with 80mph wind gusts

Some parts of the UK faced perishing temperatures heavy snowfalls which impacted gardeners (Getty Images)

Dying plants, cracked garden furniture and potential damp build-up in sheds during cold season can also mean hefty damage control and repairs - but there are ways to prevent the financial outlay for this once spring arrives.

It is recommended that gardeners line the floor and walls of their garden shed with old rugs or offcuts of carpets to insulate and protect your shed from cold temperatures and prevent any potential mould or dampness building up and damaging belongings. Mr Sutcliffe added: “The cold, wet weather that comes in winter can be damaging for our gardens, so it's important people take time to prepare and protect their garden in harsher conditions."

Graeme Murray