The pomegranate tree thrives in tropical and subtropical climates. He loves the sun and is otherwise rather undemanding when it comes to care. It cannot tolerate the severe frosts and therefore has to be brought indoors in winter.
Is the pomegranate hardy?
The pomegranate tree is not generally hardy, but there are frost-resistant varieties such as Entekhabi Saveh, Uzbek, Kazake, Salavatski and Provence, which can tolerate temperatures down to -15°C. Otherwise, the tree must be brought indoors or protected in winter.
The easy-care, small-growing plant from the Orient is native to warm climate zones. The pomegranate tolerates short drops in temperature well, but not permanent frost. It can be cultivated as a container plant without much effort. In summer you put the bucket on the terrace or balcony in the blazing sun and in winter you bring it inside. In wine-growing regions with mild winters, it is possible to grow it as an outdoor plant.
Overwintering the potted plant
As soon as the temperatures drop, the pomegranate tree sheds its leaves. It can then be moved to a dark, cool and frost-free place to overwinter. It can be a basement, a winter garden, a heated greenhouse. In any case, the temperatures there should not fall below 2° C or exceed 10° C.
The plant is only watered enough during the winter break so that it doesn't dry out completely. From February onwards, the pomegranate can be moved to a place where it is warmer and brighter than its winter quarters. After the last frosts, the pomegranate tree can take its place in the garden or on the terrace. A sheltered spot on the south wall of the house is well suited.
Wintering outdoors
In wine-growing regions, where summers are long and winters are mild, pomegranate trees can be cultivated as outdoor plants. They need a sunny, wind-protected location. The newly planted trees should be protected from frost in winter. To do this, you wrap them in straw or fleece mats; the tree disc can also be protected with brushwood and leaves.
If you want to plant a pomegranate tree or bush in the garden, you should pay attention to frost-resistant varieties when purchasing. These are better suited for overwintering outdoors and can withstand sub-zero temperatures of up to 15° C. The following hardy varieties are available in specialist shops:
- Entekhabi Saveh,
- Uzbek,
- Kazake,
- Salavatski,
- Provence.
Tips & Tricks
If you don't want the hassle of overwintering, you should choose Punica granatum Nana, which can also be kept as a houseplant thanks to its compact growth.
