The gentian bush, also known as the gentian tree, comes from South America and cannot tolerate fresh wind or frost. The gentian tree definitely has to spend the winter indoors. What you need to pay attention to so that the shrub blooms again next year.
How do you properly overwinter a gentian bush?
To overwinter a gentian bush successfully, place it in a cool, bright room such as a winter garden, hallway, cellar or garden shed at least 7 degrees. Keep the soil moist, but do not fertilize and check regularly for pest infestation.
The gentian tree does not tolerate frost
Frost is so damaging to gentian trees that the plants can die. Therefore, clear the bushes into the house in good time before the temperatures outside drop too much.
If you have planted the gentian bush in the garden, you should dig it up at the end of September at the latest and put it in the pot in its winter quarters.
Where is the best place to overwinter the gentian tree?
The warm room is not a suitable winter quarters. Well suited are:
- Cool winter gardens
- Bright hallways
- Basement rooms
- Garden houses
The temperatures must be at least seven degrees. An ideal location is around ten degrees warm. Make sure that the room can be ventilated to prevent pest infestation.
Keep the soil moderately moist and never allow it to dry out. You are not allowed to fertilize during the winter break.
Overwinter gentian bushes light or dark
The gentian stem survives the cold season best in bright winter quarters. If necessary, you can also overwinter the gentian tree in a dark place. However, the evergreen plant then loses its leaves. This means you have to wait longer for next year's blooms.
Preparing gentian stems for overwintering
Gentian trees can become quite sprawling. Nevertheless, you should cut the gentian bush as little as possible. If you prune too much, the shrub will bloom less next year.
Tips & Tricks
The evergreen gentian bush is often attacked by aphids, spider mites and whiteflies in its winter quarters. Therefore, check the gentian stem regularly for pest infestation. If discovered early, the pests can be easily removed.
