what to cover outdoor plants with

Protect Outdoor Plants: What to Cover Them With

By Mark YoungFebruary 12, 2026

When it comes to protecting your outdoor plants, covering them is a tried-and-true method. Whether you're safeguarding against harsh weather conditions, pests, or simply want to encourage growth, there are numerous options to choose from. Let's delve into the world of plant covers and explore what works best for your green friends.

Before we dive into the various types of plant covers, it's essential to understand why covering your plants is beneficial. Plant covers provide a barrier against extreme temperatures, wind, and heavy rain. They also help retain moisture, promote growth, and deter pests. Moreover, they can add a touch of aesthetics to your garden, making it an inviting space.

Natural Plant Covers

For eco-conscious gardeners, natural plant covers are an excellent choice. They not only protect your plants but also integrate seamlessly with your garden's ecosystem.

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One of the most popular natural covers is burlap. Made from woven jute fibers, burlap allows air and water to pass through while providing insulation and protection from wind and frost. It's perfect for young trees and shrubs, as it promotes growth and prevents sun scorch.

Agribon

Agribon is a lightweight, spunbonded polyester fabric that's ideal for protecting plants from frost, wind, and light rain. It's available in various weights, from 15 to 150 grams per square meter, offering different levels of protection. Agribon is also breathable, allowing air and water to circulate, preventing overheating and promoting plant growth.

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Another benefit of Agribon is its UV protection. It helps filter out harmful UV rays, preventing sunburn on leaves and promoting healthier plant growth. It's perfect for covering young plants, vegetables, and flowers in early spring and late fall.

Fleece

Fleece is a soft, lightweight, and breathable fabric that provides excellent insulation. It's perfect for protecting plants from frost, wind, and light rain. Fleece covers can be used to protect young plants, tender vegetables, and even fruit trees during late spring frosts.

Fleece is also great for protecting plants from pests like aphids and caterpillars. By covering your plants with fleece, you create a physical barrier that prevents these pests from reaching your plants. However, it's essential to ensure that the fleece is secure and doesn't allow pests to crawl underneath.

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Synthetic Plant Covers

Synthetic plant covers are durable, long-lasting, and provide excellent protection against various elements. They're a great option for gardeners who prioritize longevity and ease of use.

One of the most common synthetic covers is plastic sheeting. It's inexpensive, easy to install, and provides excellent protection against wind, rain, and frost. However, it's essential to ensure that the plastic sheeting is secure, as it can otherwise cause damage to plants by trapping heat and moisture.

Row Covers

Row covers are lightweight, synthetic fabrics designed to protect plants in rows. They're typically made from spunbonded polyester or polypropylene and are available in various weights, from 0.5 to 2.0 oz per square yard.

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Row covers provide excellent protection against frost, wind, and light rain. They're perfect for protecting young plants, vegetables, and flowers. Some row covers also provide UV protection, preventing sunburn on leaves and promoting healthier plant growth.

Garden Fleece

Garden fleece is a heavy-duty, synthetic fleece that provides excellent insulation and protection against frost, wind, and light rain. It's perfect for protecting young plants, tender vegetables, and even fruit trees during late spring frosts.

Garden fleece is also great for protecting plants from pests. By covering your plants with garden fleece, you create a physical barrier that prevents these pests from reaching your plants. However, it's essential to ensure that the fleece is secure and doesn't allow pests to crawl underneath.

In the world of gardening, there's no one-size-fits-all solution. The best plant cover depends on your specific needs, the plants you're growing, and the climate you live in. Whether you choose natural or synthetic covers, always ensure that the cover allows for adequate air circulation and doesn't trap excessive heat or moisture. Happy gardening!