The freezing weather expected this week has local nurseries taking cover.

Many plants can take the cold, said Lewis Carver with DeWayne's Home and Garden Showplace in Smithfield.

Bur nurseries are covering vulnerable plants, particularly those with flowers, he said.

"What will happen is some of the new growth, some of the tender growth will actually die from the frost," Carver said.

Johnston County has more than 50 nurseries.

Tips to help your plants survive the freezing weather:

• water them thoroughly
• move them to a porch or garage, if possible
• cover them with a cloth

More tips to avoid plant damage (from the North Carolina Cooperative Extension Service):

• Plant only varieties that are hardy to your area.
• If you have a choice, locate less hardy plants in the highest part of the yard. Cold air settles to the lowest part of the yard.
• Protect plants from cold wind. A fence or tall evergreen hedge of trees or shrubs gives good protection.
• Shade plants from direct winter sun, especially early morning sun. Plants that freeze slowly and thaw slowly will be damaged the least. The south side of the house with no shade is the worst place for tender plants.
• Stop feeding plants nitrogen in late summer. Let them "harden off" before cold weather.
• A covering of plastic is excellent protection. Build a frame over the plant or plants, cover with plastic and seal plastic to the ground with soil. Shade plastic to keep temperature from building up inside. This plastic traps moisture and warm air as it radiates from the soil. It also knocks off cold wind. Be certain not to allow plastic to come in contact with plants.