Due to the warm climate of their homeland, Mediterranean plants are not used to frost and sub-zero temperatures. To ensure that they survive the winter unscathed, suitable frost protection is necessary. But what do you have to pay particular attention to? You can find out how and where to best overwinter Mediterranean plants in this guide.
How do I protect Mediterranean plants from frost in winter?
To protect Mediterranean plants in winter, hardy species such as cypresses and olive trees should be overwintered in cool, frost-free areas at 5-10°C. Non-hardy plants such as oleander require warmer, bright locations at around 15°C. Greenhouses, garages and winter tents are ideal for this.
Is winter protection necessary for all Mediterranean plants?
Not a single Mediterranean plant can tolerate severe temperatures below zero. However, some species are a little more robust than others. In this case we speak of conditional frost hardiness.
the further north, the winter hardiness depends on the altitudeThe conditionally hardy plants include:
- Cypresses
- Fig trees
- Olive trees
- Yuzus
- scattered citrus plants
- Hemp palms
However, the following are not hardy:
- lots of citrus plants
- Oleander
- Cylinder Cleaner
- Agapanthus
- Bougainvillea
Demands on the winter quarters
Although there are different claims regarding Mediterranean or tropical origins, in any case the winter quarters must be frost-free. However, differences in temperature are desirable. For example, Mediterranean plants overwinter at 5 to 10°C. Subtropical plants, on the other hand, feel more comfortable at 15°C. Always adapt the lighting conditions in 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 will punish the wrong location with premature leaf drop.
Suitable locations
- Garages with ventilation option
- Greenhouses and orangeries
- on the balcony under a winter tent (€229.00 on Amazon)
Tip
Don't have space to protect your Mediterranean plant from frost? Ask your nursery about a so-called wintering service. As soon as the temperatures drop, you can drop off your plant 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, if you have any questions you should contact your tree nursery or do your own research on the Internet.
