Almost all hydrangeas offered in our latitudes are hardy and only need light protection in mild regions. The hydrangea also usually gets along well with locations where lower minus temperatures prevail over a longer period of time. However, you should take appropriate measures to protect the plant from frost.
Most hydrangeas are hardy
Winter hardiness also depends on the variety
How much frost a hydrangea tolerates is usually noted on the plant label, because not all hydrangea varieties cope equally well with the longer frost phases in our climate zone. Farmer's hydrangeas are considered to be particularly hardy and robust, and they freeze relatively little even in harsh areas and with some winter protection. Panicle hydrangeas also tolerate frosty temperatures well.
Winter protection makes sense
Even hardy hydrangeas need some winter protection. The following measures have proven effective:
- Do not cut off faded flowers in autumn, this will protect the new shoots from frost damage.
- Cover the root collar about four inches high with bark mulch, garden soil or compost.
- In rough areas, also cover the plant with a special plant fleece or a jute sack (€10.99). The packing material should be supported by poles so that the weight of the snow does not rest on the branches.
Please never use plastic wrap to protect the hardy hydrangea from the cold. Bubble wrap is also unsuitable. Moisture accumulates under these air-impermeable materials. These are optimal conditions for mold and other fungi, which can massively damage the plant.
Overwinter hardy hydrangeas in tubs
Hydrangeas in pots less than a foot in diameter should preferably be overwintered indoors. A room with a temperature of around ten degrees during the day is well suited. Ventilate regularly, because if the humidity is too high, there is a risk of fungal diseases here too.
Overwinter potted hydrangeas outdoors
With our tips, you can also care for hardy hydrangeas on the balcony or terrace in the cold season:
- Stop fertilizing from late summer so that the shoots mature by winter.
- Remove the saucer and place the hydrangea on styrofoam or terracotta feet instead. This protects the plant from rising ground cold.
- Nevertheless, ensure optimal water drainage to avoid waterlogging.
- Do not pack plants too early to harden them for the coming cold season.
- Might snow fall on the hardy hydrangea, support the fleece or jute with a wooden cross. This avoids snow breakage.
- You can also pack the pot in insulating bubble wrap or polystyrene.
tips
Hardy hydrangeas usually do not freeze to death - but they can dry out. It is therefore important to water the plants moderately but regularly even in winter, especially when the days are a little warmer and there is no precipitation.