Hydrangeas are relatively hardy and can remain in their planter on the balcony or terrace during the cold season. Alternatively, a frost-free room can be used as winter quarters. In this article you will find out what you have to pay attention to when wintering the hydrangea.

Preparation for the winter

In autumn, prepare the plant for winter by taking appropriate care measures.

stop fertilizing

To prevent the hydrangeas from freezing back at low temperatures, the plant should no longer be fertilized in autumn. As a result, the shoots fully mature and are frost-resistant. In addition, the hydrangea does not sprout immediately on the first mild days of spring, which can lead to the flower buds freezing to death in the event of sudden night frosts.

Remove dried plant parts

In autumn, carefully cut off all withered and damaged parts of the plant. These are entry points for numerous plant diseases and fungi. It is essential to refrain from a radical cut, as this robs the plant of a lot of strength at the beginning of winter dormancy.

Fight diseases and parasites

When pruning, check the hydrangea for common pests such as

  • spider mites
  • Mealybug
  • thrips

and any plant diseases. Fight them with effective means before the hydrangea moves to its winter quarters.

Suitable planters

So that the earth in the bucket does not freeze completely, it should have a diameter of at least forty centimeters. Thick-walled tubs are ideal because the material offers a certain degree of protection against the cold.

Overwintering hydrangeas indoors

Hydrangeas that are cared for in smaller pots should be brought into a bright and cool room, for example the basement, before the first frosts. Temperatures of around five degrees are ideal. Please keep in mind that the hydrangea needs to be watered regularly, even in winter.

Overwinter hydrangeas in buckets on the balcony

If the hydrangea is in a sufficiently large planter, you can also care for it on the balcony or terrace in winter. To ensure that the plant survives the cold season well, proceed as follows:

  • Place the hydrangea in the tub in a wind and sun-protected place on the wall of the house.
  • Wrap the pot in burlap or bubble wrap.
  • Cover the hydrangea with a special plant fleece.
  • Check regularly that the soil is still moist and water if necessary.

tips and tricks

Leave the dried flower heads on the hydrangea throughout the winter. These protect the blooming blossoms from frost.

Category:

Vegetable garden