Keeping trees warm

[greasyfire]

Hi guys
What is the best way to keep a tree warm if you do not have does tree covers, any alternative materials that would be really good for insulating a tree.

[Jeanied]

What kind of tree GF? And how is it planted? I've used bubblewrap around my lemon tree in a pot but to be honest I'd be surprised if it lived! You could use chrismas tree lights wrapped round and lit - under fleece or even net curtains. Hay, straw, newspaper?

[greasyfire]

The first one is a kiwi, i bought it this year and all it leaves are gone, being it first year outside im not to confident in it , it is in a big pot. The second is a grape, its counterpart has succombed to the frost so i am afraid for that and the final one is a kumquat. Im giving it to a freind and getin a new one aroung march because of the vairety but i would like to keep them alive till then.

[Jeanied]

Can you try the christmas tree lights trick GF? They will need wrapping up in this cold, as well.

[greasyfire]

what is the christams tree lights trick?

[Jeanied]

Take your christmas tree lights, wrap around the tree - plug in (safely) and light - cover the whole tree with a sheet, old net curtain, newspapers whatever you can find - as long as the lights are on the inside. The tiny amount of heat from the bulbs will keep the tree alive. That's the theory anyway!

[Brengirl]

Do you not reckon that all that would be a little too much too late. I think any damage is already done and if they have survived thus far they are survivers. Only time will tell.

[Nicos]

I agree- it's probably too late now
And remember- it needs to be outdoor Xmas lights...you may be able to find some in the sales now for nxt year.
still these trees are expensive- and still worth the effort of trying to ave them
Remember it's usually the roots being frozen which is the final nail in the coffin!

[starloc]

Christmas lights work well (preferably not led ones) , i use frost cloth on my citrus over the lights, builders polythene or a taupaulin works as well but check its not too tight or you may get mould inside

Kiwis dont need any protection , at all, they will not flower if they dont get a lot of very cold weather, they are cold hardy

Spraying water on them also works well, plant turns into a giant ice tree untill its all melted keep the water sprinkling

[greasyfire]

Thanks guys