The Akebia or climbing cucumber (bot. Akebia quinata) is native to East Asia. As a tropical plant, it is only conditionally hardy. So far, the attractive climbing plant with its fragrant flowers and edible fruits is not very widespread.

The Akebia quinata is only conditionally hardy

Can I also cultivate an Akebia quinata in a bucket?

Plants that are not frost-hardy are often cultivated in tubs so that they can be easily moved to winter quarters. This is also possible with the Akebia quinata. However, you should consider the fairly fast and massive root growth here and choose a correspondingly large planter.

Does my Akebia quinata need protection from frost?

Since the Akebia quinata is not really frost-resistant, it absolutely needs winter protection. In a mild area, a layer of leaves, brushwood, or bark mulch over the root ball will do. Here their Akebia stays green even in winter. If you live in a harsher region with long, cold winters, it may even be necessary to move the Akebia to a frost-free winter quarters.

How do I care for my Akebia quinata in winter?

During the winter your Akebia quinata does not need any fertilizer. You should only give additional nutrients again in March or April. Protection against cold winds is definitely recommended, even excessive winter sun can damage your Akebia.

However, it is a misconception that plants do not need water during hibernation. Moisture evaporates through the leaves and without water your Akebia will dry up. However, you should only water on frost-free days, otherwise the liquid will freeze before the plant can absorb it.

How does the Akebia react to late frost?

The Akebia quinata puts out its buds very early and often flowers as early as April. Late frosts are often to be expected at this time and the ice saints in May are still to come. It can happen that the blossoms freeze and no fruit is to be expected.

The essentials in brief:

  • conditionally hardy
  • stays mostly green in mild winter
  • Cultivation in bucket possible
  • Protect root ball from freezing
  • protect from cold wind and blazing midday sun
  • flowers in April
  • Blossom endangered by late frost

tips

The Akebia quinata tolerates frost for a short time at best, adequate winter protection is definitely recommended.

Category:

Vegetable garden