To the right and always uphill - that's the honeysuckle's motto. From spring to autumn there is little need to worry about this plant. But when winter approaches, doubts arise as to whether it will survive the cool season well.
Winter hardy, but not always frost-proof
Honeysuckle, whether forest honeysuckle, garden honeysuckle or Japanese honeysuckle, is hardy. As a precaution, it is still advisable to provide the honeysuckle with a protective layer of mulch in late autumn. Compost, bark or leaves can be added over the root area.
Being hardy doesn't necessarily mean being safe from frost. If the honeysuckle is left outside in the pot, it usually does not survive the winter. Therefore, special precautions should be taken in such a case
Protecting honeysuckle in the pot in winter
A honeysuckle that is on the terrace or balcony, for example, should be protected from the first frost in autumn. Whether it's a jute bag (€24.00 on Amazon) or fleece or another insulating material - the main thing is that the material is stretched around the bucket.
Smaller specimens that have just been planted or are cuttings can be placed indoors over the winter. The other specimens are usually too large and would have to be put in along with their climbing aid. This is difficult to implement
Care during the winter
The following care or non-care is necessary in and after winter:
- Set fertilizer
- water sparingly with lime-free water (especially evergreen species)
- check for pest infestation
- When wintering indoors: regulate the humidity (e.g. by spraying)
- cut if necessary after overwintering
Don't panic when the leaves curl up
A long period of frost in winter can cause the leaves of evergreen species outdoors to curl. The reason: They want to evaporate less water because they cannot absorb new water through the frozen ground. The leaves often fall off as a result. But don't panic: They will sprout again in spring.
Tips & Tricks
In sheltered locations in mild climates, the risk of shoots freezing in winter is extremely low. Therefore, you should plant the honeysuckle in such a place.
