Tonight, Too, Protect Your Foliage

BROOKSVILLE - Backyard tropical foliage plants - such as palm trees - may be on life support this morning, especially if people failed to take necessary measures to protect them from the overnight cold.

Although tonight's forecast is not as severe as for Wednesday night and early today, temperatures still may dip below freezing, giving plant enthusiasts one more night to worry.

The first rule of thumb for homeowners would be to turn off their irrigation systems at night. Some experts use a watering method to protect their plants from the cold, but only seasoned growers should attempt it.

"It's a real science to using water for landscapes," said University of Florida horticulture expert Jim Moll, who regularly teaches classes on irrigation and landscaping.

"Homeowners should turn off their sprinklers. That's really the first line of defense."

Other suggestions would be to cover foliage with a permeable sheet or blanket. Frost cloths also are sold by major home-improvement retailers, but any linen would do the trick, Moll said.

The covers should not come in contact with the foliage. Instead, stakes should be set up, and the blanket or sheet should be securely fastened and hanging above the plants.

That keeps the earth's heat contained and protects the foliage from Mother Nature's elements.

Moll said abrupt changes in the weather could make it difficult for some warm weather plants to survive. He equated it to switching gears in a car and not having time to push in the clutch.

"Some of our palms are iffy and some citrus plants could be iffy," Moll warned.

PASCO SHELTERS

• The Holy Ground Homeless Shelter has space available. It is at 8835 Denton Ave., Hudson, the northeast corner of U.S. 19 and Denton Avenue. For transportation, call Holy Ground at (727) 863-9123.

The shelter needs kerosene, electric heaters, blankets, cots and food. Donations can be dropped off at the shelter, or call to arrange for pickup.

• A shelter also will open at the First United Methodist Church of New Port Richey, 5901 Indiana Ave. Doors open at 5 p.m. Hot meals will be provided. For information, call (813) 956-9973.