Cool weather shouldn’t harm most plants

Tuesday, Aug. 31, 1999 | 2:31 a.m.

CARSON CITY, Nev. - Cooler weather shouldn't harm gardens, horticulturists say, as long as the current touch of fall in northern Nevada doesn't get too cool.

"People need to pay attention when they go to bed," said horticulturist JoAnne Skelly. "If the skies are clear and really still, you can usually expect a freeze."

Lows hovered around freezing Tuesday in some outlying areas and fell to 29 in Elko. Readings in the mid 30s to the low 40s were forecast for early Wednesday.

Skelly said residents people in open areas might want to cover plants, but added that it would take cooler weather to cause real damage.

Carson Valley Garden and Ranch owner Dave Thomas said greenhouse plants should be safe.

"Nursery-bought items are usually sold in this area with the heartier thought in mind," he said. "It's got to get down pretty low before it'll nip anything. It's got to get into the low teens."

Greg Hanson of Greenhouse Garden Center, added that the assurances apply only to native plants.

"Unless it's your favorite ficus tree on your patio, our gardens aren't in danger unless we get lower," he said. "It's actually good for the trees and shrubs."