The gentian bush is native to the warm regions of South America and is not hardy. He doesn't get any frost at all. Even if the gentian tree is only exposed to sub-zero temperatures for a short time, the pretty shrub freezes to death. Therefore, make sure you find suitable winter quarters in good time.
When should the gentian bush be protected from frost?
The gentian bush should be protected from frost by moving it to winter quarters as soon as the outside temperature drops to 7 degrees. Overwintering locations can be sheds or frost-free cellars, although you should always keep an eye on the temperatures.
When does the gentian tree have to go into winter quarters?
Gardeners recommend keeping the tree outdoors until the onset of winter with freezing temperatures. You shouldn't rely on that.
It can get very cold overnight, even in autumn.
It is ideal if you bring the gentian bush into the house as soon as the temperatures outside drop to seven degrees.
How to find the ideal place to spend the winter
Of course, under no circumstances should there be short-term temperature drops close to freezing point at the wintering location.
If you place the gentian tree in a shed or garden shed, you should install a frost monitor (€260.00 on Amazon) or at least hang up a thermometer to keep an eye on the temperatures.
The place to spend the winter doesn't necessarily have to be bright. You can also keep the gentian tree in a frost-free basement over the winter. However, the evergreen plant sheds all of its leaves in the dark.
Preparing the gentian bush for moving
- Cut excess branches
- Check for pests
- Treat if necessary
- Only water moderately
- Stop fertilizing
Before the gentian tree moves to its winter quarters, you can cut a few protruding branches. However, make the cuts sparingly as they are at the expense of the flower.
Inspect the gentian bush for aphids, spider mites and whiteflies. Treat an infestation immediately. Otherwise, the pests multiply rapidly in the winter quarters and damage the plant.
When can the potato tree go outside again?
When the days become brighter and warmer again, slowly get the gentian tree used to the fresh air again.
On frost-free days you can place it in a sheltered spot on the terrace.
Since ground frost often occurs at night in spring, you should bring the shrub back into the house in good time in the afternoon.
Tips & Tricks
Place the gentian bush in the bucket on a rolling base. Then you can always roll it wherever the sun is shining. A mobile bucket is also much easier to bring into winter quarters.
