What is the effect of frost on tender plants?

Frost has a significant and often detrimental effect on tender plants, which are more sensitive to cold temperatures. When frost occurs, the moisture inside the plant cells can freeze, causing the cells to rupture. This cellular damage can lead to symptoms such as wilting, discoloration, and ultimately, the death of the plant if the exposure to frost is severe or prolonged.

Tender plants, which may include various flowering plants, vegetables, and ornamental species, are not equipped to handle the physiological stress that frost imposes. They thrive in warm conditions and can be severely impacted once temperatures dip below their tolerance levels. In fact, many gardeners take extensive measures to protect these types of plants from frost, such as using coverings, moving potted plants indoors, or planting in areas with more favorable microclimates, to prevent frost damage.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent the impact of frost on tender plants, as frost does not enhance growth, has a significant effect rather than no effect, and does not promote flowering in these vulnerable species.