Gentian is used to harsh climates in its original homeland, the Alps. The short-stemmed species are absolutely winter hardy. Gentian species that form longer stems require a little more care during the winter. Potted plants should also be protected from frost.
How should gentian be prepared for overwintering?
To overwinter gentian successfully, plant it in a favorable location in spring and cut it back in late autumn. No winter protection is necessary outdoors; Potted plants should stand on insulating material and be covered with brushwood. Make sure there is sufficient moisture without waterlogging.
Wintering gentian outdoors
Generally, gentian does not need any winter protection in the rock garden. The flower survives even very low temperatures well - as long as it has favorable site conditions, such as calcareous or acidic soil, depending on the variety.
In very rough locations, a light winter protection made from brushwood doesn't do any harm.
Overwintering gentian in pots
Gentian in pots or flower boxes is not overwintered indoors, but outdoors.
Since the soil in the pot freezes quickly, you should place the planters on insulating material (€7.00 on Amazon) and cover the gentian with brushwood. You may only use fir branches with Koch's gentian, as they lower the pH value of the soil.
Place the pot in a place protected from the wind. Terraces or balconies that don't get too cold are well suited.
Caring for the gentian during overwintering
- Prune in late autumn
- Cover in rough areas or in a bucket
- Water when dry
You can only cut mature gentian plants. Freshly planted gentian cannot gather enough strength if it is pruned more heavily.
The roots of the plant must never dry out completely. If the winter is very dry, don't forget to water. This is especially true for the flower in the pot, as the soil dries out quite quickly. But avoid waterlogging.
Tips & Tricks
You should plant gentian outdoors in early spring. Then the plant has enough time to survive the winter. When planted in autumn, gentian perennials also need light winter protection outdoors.
