The days are getting shorter and the first night frosts are imminent. This is a dangerous time, not only for plants, if there is not enough protection against the cold. Even your planter can jump when the temperature is below zero. In this guide you will read all about the precautionary measures to be taken now.
Sensitive plants should be isolated and protected
Which planters are at risk?
Plant pots made of wood or ceramic in particular are at risk of bursting in winter. Unlike stone pots, the material absorbs moisture. If it freezes, it expands. The bucket cannot withstand this pressure. Plant pots made of fiberglass, on the other hand, are considered to be very robust. They also protect your plants from aggressive UV rays in summer.
General note: You should always coat a wooden tub with a glaze to protect it.
Protect planters from frost
The following steps are necessary when overwintering planters:
- Install drainage
- increase location
- Insulate bucket
- protect plants
Install drainage
If you plant your flower pot in autumn, you must ensure that the irrigation water drains away. If the liquid accumulates in the substrate, not only your plant will be damaged. When the water freezes, it expands and bursts the pot. The drainage layer should be at least one tenth of the bucket. Instructions for the exact filling can be found on this page.
increase location
If your planter is standing directly on the ground, the water will only run off to a limited extent. In winter, even the popular coaster is no solution. When it snows, dew water collects in the bowl and freezes. It is therefore better to place your planter on a garden chair or on a shelf.
Insulate bucket
If the temperature is severely below zero, you should wrap your planter in fleece or bubble wrap. The winter protection does not have to represent an optical reduction. Coconut mats, (21.90€) jute or straw look very natural and retain the charm of a cottage garden.
protect plants
Ultimately, you should also protect the planting in your tub from frost. If the roots are also covered with soil, they are the most vulnerable part of the plant. Cover the substrate with a layer of mulch.