Louisiana’s Winter Storm Wiped Out My Plants (And My Gardening Confidence):

Here's How to Fix Yours

So, y’all, we had that rare winter storm from Jan. 20–24, 2025. I don’t know about you, but despite my heroic efforts—wrapping my plants like they were going on a ski trip, covering roots like I was tucking them into bed, and even bundling up entire pots—I’m now staring at what looks like a plant graveyard in my yard. RIP to the dreams of having a thriving green oasis.

But hey, I still love my flowers and plants (even if they don’t love me back). So, I figured it was time to stop winging it and actually get some expert advice before another Arctic freeze rolls through and makes my yard look like a scene from Frozen again.

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If you’re like me and have been diagnosed with a serious case of “No Green Thumb-Idis”, here are eight tips to help bring your plants back to life—or at least give them a fighting chance next time Mother Nature gets cranky. Per the advice from LSUagcenter.com

1. Assess the Damage (But Don’t Panic-Prune)
Step one: Look at your plants. Step two: Resist the urge to grab your scissors. I know those dead leaves are an eyesore, but hold off on pruning until spring. If you cut them too soon, you could make things worse. Think of it as letting your plants mourn their leaves in peace.

2. Mulch: Your Plant’s Winter Blanket
Mulch isn’t just for looks, y’all—it’s like a snuggly blanket for your plant babies. Spread 2–4 inches around the base (but don’t let it touch the stems unless you want to invite rot to the party). It’ll keep their roots cozy and happy.

3. Water Wisely (Yes, Even When It’s Cold)
Before a freeze, give your plants a good drink. Moist soil holds heat better than dry soil, so think of this as giving them a hot cup of cocoa before bed. But don’t overdo it—no one likes soggy feet, not even your plants.

4. Cover Up (Fashionably, Of Course)
When freezing temps hit, it’s time to dress your plants up like it’s Mardi Gras—layered and fabulous. Use frost cloths, old sheets, or even a bath towel. Just don’t use plastic—it’s not breathable, and your plants might end up looking worse than they already do.

5. Add a Little Heat
If your plants need a little extra TLC, break out those old-school Christmas lights (the non-LED kind). Wrap them around your plants before covering them. Not only will your yard look festive, but your plants will stay warm enough to survive.

6. Relocate the VIPs
Got potted plants? Think of them as VIPs and move them indoors or to a sheltered area. If you can’t bring them inside, huddle them together against a wall and cover them up like they’re bracing for a tailgate in freezing weather.

7. Don’t Feed Them Yet
Hold off on the fertilizer, y’all. Winter isn’t the time to push for new growth—it’s like giving your plants energy drinks before bed. Wait until spring when they’re ready to party again.

8. Prune with Patience
If you absolutely must prune, keep it minimal. Focus on the obviously dead parts and leave the rest until the last frost is behind us. Think of this as a “gentle haircut,” not a buzz cut.

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Final Thoughts for Louisiana For Plant Lovers

With another freeze on the way, it’s time to give what’s left of your outdoor plants the attention they deserve. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just trying not to kill your succulents (again), these tips will help you prep for the cold and recover from winter damage.

Remember, gardening is all about patience, learning from mistakes, and sometimes laughing at how bad you are at it (looking at myself here). You’ve got this, Louisiana! 💪🌿

LOOK: The most extreme temperatures in the history of every state

Stacker consulted 2021 data from the NOAA's State Climate Extremes Committee (SCEC) to illustrate the hottest and coldest temperatures ever recorded in each state. Each slide also reveals the all-time highest 24-hour precipitation record and all-time highest 24-hour snowfall.

Keep reading to find out individual state records in alphabetical order.

Gallery Credit: Anuradha Varanasi

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