With its sky-blue flowers, rapid growth and its ability to even act as a climbing plant, leadwort is making many friends in the world of plant lovers. But what will become of him in winter?

Leadwort does not tolerate frost at all

An exotic: Not winterproof

Leadwort originally comes from climatically warmer regions of the world. As a result, it has a hard time dealing with low temperatures. As soon as it gets frosty, its end is near. It can withstand light frost for a short time. But it cannot withstand a real Central European winter with longer periods of frost.

Winter safely indoors

It is recommended not to plant the leadwort at all, but to keep it in the bucket. Then it can easily be put in in the fall and overwintered indoors. You have two options: wintering in a bright room or in a dark room.

If you choose a bright room to spend the winter, such as the conservatory, it should be between 7 and 12 °C. If, on the other hand, you choose a dark room such as the basement, the temperatures there should be between 5 and 8 °C.

Cut down before overwintering

Before you house your leadwort, it should be cut down. Here you can act mercilessly. Cut back all shoots by half. This means that a place for the plant can be found faster, it takes up less space and needs less water.

What needs to be considered in winter care?

The following care should be emphasized in winter:

  • do not fertilize
  • pour little
  • check for pest infestation (likely to be attacked by spider mites and aphids)
  • Beware of wetness -> gray mold
  • clean wilted leaves
  • repot from the end of February

Overwinter outside in mild climates

Have you planted your leadwort and live in a region with a mild climate? Then the plant can perhaps be overwintered outside. Protect it generously with fleece and trim it back by 2/3 to 1/2 before!

tips

Don't panic: in a dark winter quarters, the leadwort loses its leaves. If you make it lighter again in spring, it will sprout again.

Category:

Herbs