Quick Frost Protection Guide for Property Managers

Arizona Commercial Landscape – December & January

Frost is common in Arizona from late December through early February, especially in areas like Fountain Hills, Rio Verde, and NE Scottsdale. Even lower-elevation areas can freeze on clear, still nights.Frost damage can impact curb appeal, tenant satisfaction, and replacement budgets — so proactive prep is essential.

Below is a fast, property-manager–friendly checklist.

🌡️ 1. Monitor Freeze Alerts

Commercial properties cool quickly overnight.Watch for freeze warnings when temperatures may drop to 32°F or below.

Action: Turn on freeze alerts and notify your maintenance team as needed.

🛡️ 2. Cover Vulnerable Plants

Use breathable frost cloth and ensure it reaches the ground to trap heat.Remove it the next morning.

Best areas to cover:

• Entryway landscapes

• Courtyards

• Seasonal color beds

• Newly installed shrubs or trees

💧 3. Water in Late Afternoon Before Freeze

Moist soil retains heat better than dry soil.

Action: Water frost-sensitive areas in the late afternoon, not at night.

🌵 4. Protect Frost-Sensitive Plants

Common commercial plants that need extra care include:

• Bougainvillea

• Lantana

• Hibiscus

• Young trees

• Newly planted shrubs

• Tender succulents

Action: Stake frost cloth around plants or wrap young tree trunks.

🧊 5. Do Not Prune Frost Damage Immediately

Leave damaged foliage in place until late February or early March.

Action: Schedule winter cleanup and pruning at the correct time to ensure recovery.

🌞 6. Add Mulch for Root Protection

A 2–3 inch mulch layer helps regulate soil temperature.

Use in: parking lot islands, entrances, planter beds.

🪴 7. Move or Protect Container Plants

Containers lose heat faster than in-ground soil.

Action: Move pots to sheltered areas or insulate with frost cloth.

✔️ HMS Landscape Can Handle Frost Prep for Your Property

We provide full winter protection for commercial landscapes, including:

• Frost covering and removal

• Irrigation adjustments

• Winter cleanups

• Tree and plant protection

• Seasonal monitoring and on-call cold-weather support

HMS Landscape keeps your property winter-ready and protected. Contact us today for a quote.