Lawn

Tall Fescue, Bermuda grass and Zoysia grass are more cold-tolerant than Centipede grass and St. Augustine grass. The severity of the damage due to low temperatures will not be known until the grass begins to green up again. Lawns that went into winter with severe stresses such as disease damage, dry conditions or too much shade can be expected to have some problems with survival. As your lawn begins to green up your TruGreen specialist can evaluate the extent of the damage and provide recommendations.

Tree & Shrub

Most trees and shrubs are hardy enough to withstand freezing temperatures. Plants that are most susceptible to damage are: Asian jasmine, boxwood, camellia, crape myrtles, oleander, palms, pittosporum, privet, and any tropical plants. If there is damage it can show up quickly (will turn brown, droop and appear wilted) or the damage may not be evident until spring or early summer when plants are under stress.  Also trees like oaks and maples may develop bark splits on the trunk.

Bedding Plants

Many of these plants may be completely killed.  Examples include begonias, hibiscus, impatiens, lantana and Mexican heather.

What can I do to help my lawn?

• Be patient. Many damaged plants will slowly recover.
• Prune back to the green wood to stimulate recovery once the chance of any freeze is over
• Fertilization along with regular maintenance practices like proper watering and mowing will play a critical role in helping lawn recovery.

Any plants (lawn or landscape) that were under stress during the freeze due to heavy thatch, exposed roots, excessive shade and unprotected northern exposure may have damage. Your lawn is in good hands with TruGreen. We will work with you every step of the way to ensure your lawn survives this cold weather event and thrives later in this summer. If you have any questions or need additional tips, visit TruGreen.com or give us a call: 1-800-TRUGREEN