A sensitive little one or tough as nails - how is the loquat doing when it comes to low temperatures? Is it hardy or does it need protection from the freezing cold?
Warmth-loving and yet cold-resistant
The common medlar originally comes from southern Europe and western Asia and grows there in safe warmth. But she is very hardy. In sheltered locations, it tolerates temperatures down to -28 °C. In open and windy locations, it can withstand temperatures down to -20 °C.
protect in youth
Winter protection is not necessarily inappropriate. In the first years of its life, the medlar is grateful for protection from excessive cold. As a precaution, you should provide the common medlar with frost protection in the root area during the first three years outdoors. This is especially true in the first year and if you planted the common medlar in the fall.
Because the roots need time to root, they should be protected. This can be done, for example, in the form of a thick layer of leaves or bark mulch. Cover the root area towards the end of October and, if necessary, free the plant from the protective layer again at the beginning of April.
And the other medlar species?
The other types of medlar, the so-called cotoneasters, which include the dwarf medlar, are also hardy in our latitudes. Many of them are even evergreen, even at the lowest winter temperatures. The ground covers among them can cope with temperatures down to -20 °C.
But potted plants should be protected:
- either place it in a protected area such as the hallway or the stairwell
- or wrap the bucket with fleece or foil
- or transplant the plant outdoors
tips and tricks
The fruits of the common medlar need cold temperatures to become edible. Frosts cause them to become soft and the tannins they contain largely evaporate. After the frost, the fruits taste really delicious!