The wild beauty of England’s frosty mornings
Wear warm organic layers, including a middle layer to trap body heat. And a waterproof jacket to shield against damp morning mists. Choose quality walking boots with good tread, to navigate hidden black ice, especially on paths and stiles.
Advice for walking on frosty ground is (like in snow), to ‘walk like a penguin’:
- Move slowly with small shuffling steps
- Keep your feet pointed slightly outward.
- Keep your knees bent.
- Hands out of pockets (use arms to balance)
Doing the above lowers your centre of gravity, to increase stability and reduce the risk of falls. You can also wear ice grips on shoes or boots.
How To Protect Plants from Frost
Many plants will die if you leave them outside in frost, or transplant seedlings too early. But don’t use netting to cover plants, as these can trap birds and wildlife. Read more on wildlife-friendly gardens for alternate methods (like fruit protection mesh and pet-safe mulch).
If using greenhouses, you can buy special birdtape to avoid bird seeing foliage from outside, to help stop birds flying into windows.
Defrost Windscreens Without Chemicals
Rather than use de-icing sprays, there are other solutions (avoid hot water, it could crack the glass):
- Park your car undercover!
- Use a windscreen cover overnight (an old car mat will do).
- Use a manual scraper (or non-scratch kitchen spatula).
- Park your car facing east (early morning sun will melt the ice).
- Rub an onion on the windscreen the night before. The oil lines the glass, to stop freezing (keep onions away from pets).
- Or spritz a mix of cold water and cleaning vinegar) before bed or first thing in the morning, ice usually comes away in a few wipes.
Don’t use hot air inside cars, if babies/dogs are with you. Antifreeze is lethal to pets & wildlife, so let your mechanic change it in an enclosed space. If you change it yourself, use a funnel (as with oil) and use sand or kitty litter to absorb spills (don’t mop).
