Protecting delicate plants from frost

[Thistledew]

I have a couple of plants in my new garden which are going to need a bit of protecting from frost this winter. In particular, a tea tree bush, a verbena, a couple of ornamental millet and some not-completely-hardy geranium.

A couple of these have a touch of frostbite already from being unprotected on the few nights we have had a frost.

I have got some horticultural fleece to make little jumpers covers for these, but am wondering what to do over Christmas when I go away for around 10 days. Should I leave them wrapped up even though they will then have reduced light for all that time? Or do I risk it with leaving them uncovered?

Any advice gratefully received.

The millet won't survive, it's an annual.
Place the canes/stakes around your plant and carefully wrap the fleece over to cover. Secure with string. Don't wory about the light.
Personally I'd bring the geranium indoors, cut it back and place in an a cool area like a garage, don't water.

Thanks Limbo - do I need to keep the fleece away from the leaves, or is it ok if it rests on the plant itself?

I should have engaged my brain about the millet, of course it's an annual! - I was just remembering the label that came with it, which said to protect from frosts.

If the leaves are tough. ie a cordyline then it's not so important, other wise yes, is much as you can, hence the canes. You can also pack some straw around the base of the plant for added protection.