How to Save a Fruit Tree From Frost

Plant fruit trees in areas with western or southern exposure, which provide more access to the warmth of the sun. Full sun will keep the fruit trees warmer when the temperature dips.

Water the tree well enough to keep the moisture even at all levels. Dehydrated fruit trees are more likely to be injured by frost. Ice crystals form on the surface of the leaves, taking moisture from the tissues.

Spread cloth or paper over the fruit trees to act as insulation. Do not use plastic. A frost cloth also will work if the temperature reaches 20 to 30 degrees Fahrenheit. Drape the cloth from the top of the tree to the ground, covering all sides. Do not gather the cloth around the trunk; it needs to touch the ground to be effective. Take the coverings off when the temperatures rise in the mornings.

Wrap the tree trunk to prevent frost damage to the stem area. Apply three or four layers of cloth or waterproof paper, wrapping from the ground up to the first set of branches. Secure the wrapping with weatherproof tape or ties. Leave it on through the winter.

Prune frost-damaged fruit trees when they start to grow again next spring. Pruning too soon may expose the plant to more frost damage. The damaged sections may look worse at first than they will in the spring. Also, the damaged wood will continue to help trap warm air and protect the rest of the tree during the winter. When the chance of frost has passed, cut all dead wood at the connection it shares with healthy branches.