How to Use Bubble Wrap in a Garden

Prune plants and shrubs per individual pruning requirements in the fall to control branches, stems and foliage during the wrapping and help the plants conserve energy through winter. Tie long stems and canes, like on a rose bush, loosely together.

Cut a length of bubble wrap long enough to wrap once or twice around the plant, bush or tree trunk. Hold one edge of the plastic against the tree or plant and wrap the length loosely around the plant. Don't bind or damage the plant with tight wrapping. Secure the end of the plastic with duct tape.

If the first length of plastic does not cover the plant to its full height, put a second wrapping higher than the first. The bubble wrap should extend several inches above the plant's structure when you are done.

Mound 6 to 8 inches of organic mulch around the base of the plant, outside the wrapping, to protect the roots from freezing. In cold northern states like Montana and Vermont, mound mulch, straw and pine boughs over the entire plant to provide added protection.