Question: How can I protect my tender shrubs from extreme cold in the winter?

Answer: The actual plants will vary with Texas’ various regions, but the techniques will be the same. Don’t do anything to promote vigorous growth late in the season, including pruning and feeding with nitrogen. Keep them moist going into the cold. Mulch the soil as a general rule, not just for the winter. However, winter mulching can really reduce the stress of the extreme cold. If you have old sheets, and if ice or snow are not factors, cover the plants. Many gardeners use lightweight frost-cloth covers with great success.