If your plants do get caught by the frost this doesn't have to mean the end for them, over time they may recover. However there are ways of minimising the damage:

• Protect them from the morning sun, which can will growth if the plant defrosts too quickly. If you can't move the plants, cover them with a layer of plastic to block out the sun.

• In spring, Cut back frosted growth to a healthy bud - this will encourage plants to produce new shoots.

• Feed damaged plants in with a balanced fertiliser to encourage strong growth.

• Dig up tender plants and take them into the greenhouse or put them under a cold frame. Many of them will quickly produce new growth and recover.

• Newly-planted species can often lift themselves above the soil surface if there is a hard frost very soon after planting. Be sure to check them regularly to ensure their roots are always in contact with the soil.