TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WCTV) - The winter chill has returned to the Big Bend and South Georgia, so it is time to protect your people, pets, plants and pipes.

Frigid air can take a toll on everything from delicate flowers to citrus trees.

Experts at Tallahassee Nurseries say even a brief freeze can harm sensitive, unprotected plants.

However, when temperatures drop into the low-and-mid-20s, you are advised to act early because damage to plants can happen quickly.

“22, 23 is pretty severe, so real tender stuff, semi-tropical stuff, you either cover or bring inside,” said John Kane.

Kane said covering plants with frost cloths or blankets, bringing potted plants indoors, and watering the soil ahead of a freeze can all help trap the warmth.

Mulching around the base of plants is another simple step that can protect roots from the cold.

Another piece of advice, you should take off covers during the day so plants are able to get sunlight and airflow once temperatures rise above freezing.

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