Your plants will thank you with this gardening trick…
As the sun dips below the horizon and temperatures start to fall, most gardeners pack up for the day. But experts say the most important gardening move happens after the sun goes down.
That’s why insulation specialists at Heat Pump Covers have teamed up with professional gardener Lucy Wren, who has over 15 years’ experience working in everything from prestigious sites like Kew Gardens to private five-star hotel estates across the UK. Together, they’re sharing a simple, science-backed habit that can help supercharge plant growth — while also protecting your garden from cold, pests, and wind.
A spokesperson from Heat Pump Covers explains:
“The idea is simple: protect what matters most in your garden before the temperature drops. Whether it’s a heat pump or a delicate seedling, insulation and timing make all the difference. Covering up at dusk is a small action with a big impact — smart, practical, and backed by science.”
Lock in Warmth While You Still Can
“People spend time feeding, pruning and watering, but they often forget about thermal protection,” says Wren. “As the sun sets, the temperature drops rapidly, and plants lose heat fast. If you cover them at the right time — just as the sun goes down — you help trap in the warmth they’ve stored all day.”
According to Wren and insulation specialists, this technique can deliver measurable results:
- Covering plants at dusk can reduce overnight heat loss by up to 45%
- Studies suggest properly protected plants grow up to 35% faster in early spring
- Gardeners report up to 50% fewer pest issues when using physical night covers
Protection That Goes Beyond Growth
Wren explains that the benefits go far beyond temperature:
- Prevents wind damage and exposure to sudden frosts
- Deters pests and animals that become active after dark
- Preserves moisture in the soil by reducing overnight evaporation
- Shields plants from heavy rain or early morning sunlight
“Think of it as putting your plants to bed properly,” says Wren. “It’s one of the easiest ways to encourage healthier, more resilient growth.”
What to Cover With — and Why It Matters
Not all covers are created equal. Wren recommends using breathable fleece or cloches that insulate but still allow airflow. “You don’t want to suffocate the plant — just help it retain the warmth and moisture it already has,” she adds.
And it’s not just your plants that benefit. Outdoor equipment, like irrigation units and heat pumps, can also be impacted by sudden overnight cold. That’s where Heat Pump Covers brings its expertise.
While the company specialises in protecting air source heat pumps from frost, wind, and weather damage, the same thermal principles apply to gardens. Covering vital equipment at dusk — just like you would with your plants — can reduce strain, improve efficiency, and extend lifespan.
So, before you head inside tonight, throw a cover over your plants — and anything else in your garden that deserves a little protection. Your garden will thank you in the morning.
