What Does Putting A Plastic Bag Over A Plant Do?

If you are a plant lover, you may have heard someone suggest putting a plastic bag over a plant to protect it

 

If you are a plant lover, you may have heard someone suggest putting a plastic bag over a plant to protect it. But what do they mean? Is this method necessary? And how does it work? Well, wonder no more. We are here to educate you on how this planting hack can help your plants flourish.

 

 

Protecting your plant from sudden changes of temperature

 

Have you ever heard of thermal shock? It's when a plant is exposed to sudden changes in temperature, which can cause it to go into shock and even die. This is where the plastic bag comes in. By covering the plant, it creates a small greenhouse effect, trapping heat and humidity, which helps to regulate the temperature and protect the plant from any sudden temperature changes.

 

Protecting your plant from pests

 

A plastic bag can also protect your plant from pests that can harm it. By putting a bag over a plant, it creates a barrier that insects or garden pests can't crawl under. Which can help keep your plant healthy. But it’s important to note that placing a plastic bag over a plant for too long can also create a breeding ground for pests that thrive in moist environments.

 

As a protective cover from harsh elements

 

Sometimes harsh weather conditions such as strong winds or heavy rains can damage plants. In such scenarios, putting a plastic bag over the plant acts as a covering that safeguards the plant from the blunt force of the weather.

 

Enhancing humidity in the plant soil

 

When covering a plant with a plastic bag, it can enhance the humidity of the soil. This happens through the process of transpiration, where water evaporates from a plant's leaves and travels into the air. The plastic bag traps this moisture and returns it to the soil. As a result, the plant stays hydrated & you don't need to water the plant as frequently.

 

Using defrost bags for protection

 

Defrost bags are ideal for this method because they come with a zip-lock feature that makes it easy to adjust the airflow and temperature as needed. Additionally, they are reusable and can withstand frosty conditions.

 

Timing is everything

 

If you are going to place a plastic bag over a plant, it's essential to time it right. Don't cover a plant for too long as this could create a humid environment that can attract pests and upset the balance of the plant. The rule of thumb is to cover the plant for a few hours, preferably overnight, but keep an eye on how the plant is reacting to the cover.

 

Conclusion

 

Using a plastic bag to cover a plant is an easy, and affordable hack that can help protect it against harsh weather, pests, and sudden temperature changes. However, it's important to use the right type of bag and to cover the plant(s) for the right duration. For your plastic plant trays needs, we recommend contacting our supplier who can offer you great quality trays at an affordable price. With our plastic plant tray supplier behind you, your plants will be able to thrive in no time!