The tall gypsophila, Gypsophila paniculata, is hardy, as are the small-growing varieties bred from it. However, it is very sensitive to moisture, even in winter. Therefore, protection from too much water is more important than protection from the cold.
Is gypsophila hardy and how do you care for it in winter?
Gypsophila (Gypsophila paniculata) is hardy and does not need any protection from the cold in winter. However, it is important to protect the plants from too much moisture and rabbit damage. Potted plants should be protected from severe frost and cut back in autumn.
The right winter care for baby's breath
Gypsophila in the bed usually does not need any protection from the cold. Nevertheless, it makes sense to cover the plants generously. There are two reasons for this. A thick layer of brushwood or leaves not only protects against too much rain. It also largely prevents wild rabbits from using your plants as winter food. Although gypsophila is considered slightly poisonous, it is often nibbled on.
Gypsophila doesn't like it moist because that easily leads to root rot. You can therefore avoid watering these plants in winter. Normally there is more than enough rainfall during this time. If the location is generally very humid, then you should transplant your gypsophila.
Have you already trimmed your baby's breath after flowering? Maybe you have stimulated it to bloom a second time. Nevertheless, you should cut it back completely in autumn, about a hand's breadth above the ground.
potted plants in winter
Unlike bedding plants, potted plants cannot tolerate severe frost for a long period of time. There is a risk that the roots will freeze completely and the plants will die. Greenhouses or winter gardens are ideal places for gypsophila to overwinter. They don't even need to be heated for this purpose.
Gypsophila also survives a little frost quite well in a pot or planter. Protect it against severe frost by wrapping the planter with protective material. For example, bubble wrap is suitable for this (€14.00 on Amazon), but also an old blanket or something similar. In addition, you should only water your gypsophila a little now and then.
The most important tips for the winter:
- overwinter as dry as possible
- protect from too much moisture
- water very little
- Protect potted plants from severe frost
- cut back in autumn
- protect from rabbit damage
Tips & Tricks
A thick layer of brushwood or leaves protects your baby's breath from excessive rain and at the same time from being eaten by rabbits.