Preparing for winter
In autumn, prepare the plant for winter with suitable care measures.
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Stop fertilizing
So that the hydrangeas do not freeze back at low temperatures, the plant should no longer be fertilized in autumn. As a result, the shoots mature completely and are frost-resistant. In addition, the hydrangea does not sprout immediately on the first mild spring days, which can lead to the flower buds freezing to death in the event of sudden night frosts.
Remove dried out parts of the plant
In autumn, carefully cut off all withered and damaged parts of the plant. These are entry points for numerous plant diseases and fungi. Avoid radical pruning, 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 possible plant diseases. Fight them with effective means before the hydrangea moves to winter quarters.
Suitable planters
So that the earth does not completely freeze in the bucket, it should be at least forty centimeters in diameter. Thick-walled buckets are ideal as they offer a certain degree of protection from the cold thanks to the material.
Hibernate hydrangeas indoors
Hydrangeas that are cared for in smaller pots should be brought to a bright and cool room, for example the cellar, before the first frosts. Temperatures of around five degrees are ideal. Please keep in mind that the hydrangea must be watered regularly even in winter.
Hibernate hydrangeas in the tub on the balcony
If the hydrangea is in a sufficiently large planter, you can maintain it on the balcony or terrace in winter. To ensure that the plant survives the cold season well, do the following:
- Place the hydrangea in the bucket in a place on the house wall protected from wind and sun.
- Wrap the pot in jute or bubble wrap.
- Cover the hydrangea with a special plant fleece.
- Regularly check whether the soil is still moist and water if necessary.
Tips & Tricks
Leave the dried flower heads on the hydrangea during the winter. These protect the drifting flowers from frost.
