Newly emerging shoots may be protected during a sudden frost using a cover. Although a specially designed cloche or polytunnel may be used, almost any general container will do the job, such as a large plant pot, a bucket or even a sturdy cardboard box. Some other examples of using various covers to protect plants from the cold are shown below.

• Cloches may be used to protect young shrubs, tender plants or seedlings. Make sure that each of the open ends is covered with glass or plastic to prevent the wind from blowing straight through.
• Use a low polytunnel to shelter low-growing plants such as strawberries; the polythene may be raised at either side during the day to provide ventilation. Find out how to build your own low polytunnel here ...
• Cover new growth of tender crops such as potatoes at night with sheets of newspaper held in place on either side with soil. This will protect them from night frosts.
• Create a snow shelter for shrubs using two pieces of plywood panels to form a tent-shape. Cross-brace both ends with a wooden strut.