Due to the warm climate of their homeland, Mediterranean plants are not used to frost and sub-zero temperatures. In order for them to survive the winter unscathed, suitable frost protection is necessary. But what do you have to pay particular attention to? In this guide you will find out how and where you can best overwinter Mediterranean plants.
Few citrus trees are hardy
Is winter protection necessary for all Mediterranean plants?
Not a single Mediterranean plant can tolerate severe sub-zero temperatures. However, some species are more robust than others. In this case one speaks of a conditional frost hardness.
the further north, the harder the winter and the higher the altitude
Conditionally hardy plants include:
- cypresses
- fig trees
- olive trees
- Yuzus
- scattered citrus trees
- hemp palms
However, the following are not hardy:
- lots of citrus plants
- oleander
- Bottlebrush
- agapanthus
- Bougainvillea
Demands on the winter quarters
Although there are certainly different claims regarding Mediterranean or tropical origin, the winter quarters must be frost-free in any case.
However, temperature differences are desirable. Mediterranean plants, for example, overwinter at 5 to 10°C. Subtropical plants, on the other hand, do better at 15°C. Always adapt the lighting conditions of the winter quarters to the temperature. The warmer it is, the brighter the location should be. Otherwise your plant will become more susceptible to pests and punish the wrong location with premature leaf shedding.
Suitable locations
- Garages with ventilation option
- Greenhouses (72.95€) and orangeries
- on the balcony under a winter tent
tips
Don't have space to protect your Mediterranean plant from frost? Ask your nursery about a so-called overwintering service. As soon as the temperatures drop, you can leave your crop here and leave the care in the hands of the experienced staff.
Note: Since it is not possible to provide information about the winter hardiness of all plants in this guide, you should contact your nursery if you have any questions or do your own research on the Internet.