There are over 100 different types of viburnum, because it is a genus of plants. These species are native to different parts of Asia and Europe. Depending on the climate, they tolerate more or less frost.
The common viburnum is very hardy
The common snowball is quite frost hardy and usually does not need any special winter protection. It is completely different with the Mediterranean or laurel snowball, which only tolerates slight frost. Instead, it shows its intensely fragrant white-pink flowers in winter.
How do I care for the snowball bush in winter?
The common snowball and comparable species require neither winter protection nor special care. Evergreen plants also need a certain amount of water in winter, otherwise they will die of thirst. Therefore, you should also water your evergreen snowball on frost-free days. Fertilizer is not necessary during this time.
Less frost hardy snowball species, such as the Mediterranean snowball, should be protected from excessively low temperatures and cold winds in harsh regions. You basically have two different options for this. A thick layer of mulch or leaves protects many garden plants very successfully in winter, but is less suitable for the Mediterranean snowball that blooms then. It is easier and more decorative to overwinter this snowball in a bucket.
The wintering of potted plants
In the case of potted plants that do not flower in winter, it is usually sufficient to protect the root area from freezing. Wrap an old blanket, a jute sack (€10.99) or special fleece around the planter so that it is well protected on all sides, including the bottom. In a mild area, this protection can also be sufficient for the more sensitive viburnum species that flower in winter.
If you have a relatively cool or unheated winter garden or a greenhouse, then you can very well overwinter your Mediterranean snowball or laurel viburnum there and enjoy its fragrant flowers. This type of overwintering is also particularly suitable for the still quite sensitive young plants.
The best winter tips:
- water less
- do not fertilize
- protect sensitive plants from frost
- Overwinter potted plants in a cold conservatory or greenhouse
tips
Snowball species that bloom in winter are best overwintered where you can enjoy the flowers.