- Is Chinese reed hardy?
- How do I winterize my Chinese reed?
- Does it make sense to cut back in the fall?
- What to do with my Chinese reed in the bucket?
The Chinese reed with its overhanging leaves and filigree panicles of flowers is not only an eye-catcher in your garden in summer, but also in winter when it is lightly covered with hoarfrost or "powdered" with a little snow.
Chinese reed also cuts a fine figure in winter
Is Chinese reed hardy?
Some varieties of Chinese reed tolerate frost down to - 20 °C, so they can definitely be described as hardy. Practically all varieties can withstand a normal Central European winter. The Chinese reed does not need any special care during this time. However, you should take a little precaution.
How do I winterize my Chinese reed?
Only young Chinese reeds need some help overwintering, especially in a harsh area. Protect the root ball from too hard frost with some brushwood or leaves. With an older plant, it is sufficient to tie the leaves and stalks together to protect them from snow damage. However, Chinese reed also needs a little protection in the bucket and possibly some water during the winter.
Does it make sense to cut back in the fall?
A pruning in autumn is not recommended, because the withered parts of the plant above ground protect your Chinese reed from frost and moisture penetrating the stalks. In addition, you miss a decorative ornament in an otherwise drab winter garden. When winter is over and no more frost is to be expected, you can cut back your reeds in the early spring.
What to do with my Chinese reed in the bucket?
If you have planted your Chinese reed in a bucket, then the root ball is not as well protected in it as in the garden soil. Frost can penetrate into the bale here because the roots go less deep into the ground. It therefore makes sense to wrap the bucket in autumn with an old blanket, some jute sacks or something similar. Also consider protection from below.
The essentials in brief:
- hardy to about - 20 °C
- protect young plants from excessive frost
- Protect buckets from all sides, including from below
tips
Chinese reed is a very decorative winter decoration in the otherwise often dreary garden.