1. First, some of the plants that look dead are not. Most perennials will start recovering here in the south beginning in March. A list of probable survivors includes; Blue my Mind, Lantana, Salvias, Plumbago, Thryallis, Brunsfelsia, Canna Lily, and Roses. Other possible survivors depending on how long they have been established and if they were protected, are Shell Ginger, Geraniums, Firecracker, Firespike, Firebush, Apostle Iris, and Penta.

2. Wait to cut back the damage until the last chance of frost. The brown stems and leaves can protect the plant and wildlife in case of another freeze.

3. Do Not Fertilize! You don’t want to promote new growth during winter. Another frost or freeze will undoubtedly damage new tender growth.

4. Have frost cloth on hand. Don’t wait until the last minute to try and find what is needed. Frost cloth can last several years with proper storage. Large binder clips or clothespins help secure the fabric tightly around your plants. And use bricks, pavers, or rocks to hold down cloth where necessary.

5.    Check out happy winter annuals! Winter annuals fared well in this freeze. Pansy, petunia, nemesia, snapdragons, ornamental kale and cabbage, and dusty miller all look fresh, some still blooming or ready to rebloom. Use these to fill in your perennial gardens with color right now. They can last until April or even May with some afternoon shade.

6. Tropical plants took a hit, but don’t give up. Plant these close to your home or under trees. With extra help from frost cloth, these, too, can survive. Another idea is to plant them in containers you can bring inside during a freeze. Plants to observe before digging them up are Ti plants, Gingers, Birds of Paradise, Hibiscus, and Arboricola. Be patient. It might take a bit. They may grow back later in the spring or early summer.

7. Include cold-weather bloomers like Camellia in your designs. These evergreen, fall/winter-blooming plants add beautiful color to your fall and winter garden.