Why garden covers are the secret to beating the spring hungry gap
In short: Spring offers plenty of light but often lacks the warmth plants need to thrive. Discover how simple covers can bridge this temperature gap, protecting your crops from wind and pests while accelerating growth during the critical transition between winter and summer harvests.
During the 'hungry gap' in May, gardeners often struggle as winter supplies dwindle before new crops mature. While spring days provide ample light, low temperatures can stunt growth or threaten survival. Horticultural covers, such as fleece weighing 25 to 30gsm or cotton muslin, act as a vital tool to convert available light into necessary warmth.
These covers provide a triple benefit: shielding plants from wind, trapping heat during sunny periods, and offering protection against pests. However, they are not a total defense against freezing. Even with a 30gsm frost fleece, lettuce can freeze at temperatures like -1.3C (29F). While hardy greens may recover, sensitive crops like courgettes or French beans would likely perish under similar conditions.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: Using covers in spring for an increase in growth
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