Although everything can be argued about, but let's be honest: the skimmie is most beautiful in winter! Their evergreen foliage, their red flower buds or - in the case of female specimens - their coral-red stone fruits are visually impressive. But: How is their winter hardiness?
Is the skimmia hardy?
The skimmia is hardy and can withstand temperatures down to -20°C. Nevertheless, young plants and specimens in pots should be protected from severe frost. Ideal locations are partially shaded to shady, with winter protection such as brushwood or leaves.
Remarkable winter hardiness
The skimmie can spend the winter outside. Only in rare cases does frost damage occur to its flower buds and shoots. Their winter hardiness is -20 °C. This means it is considered fully frost hardy.
Winter protection is appropriate here
But you can't always overwinter the skimmie outside without any worries. If the plant has not been in its location for long, it should be given winter protection. For example, brushwood, leaves, compost, straw and pine branches are well suited. Take your pick!
You should also make sure that there is no frost. This can have a massive impact on the skimmie. Their shoots can burst and die. Protection is primarily provided by a semi-shady to shady location or a location protected from winter sun.
Prevent frost damage by watering less
Sometimes unwoody young shoots are damaged by severe frost. Prevent this by reducing watering from August onwards. This stunts the growth of this evergreen plant. If necessary, you can cut away frozen parts in the spring.
Overwintering skimmia in a pot
- indoors: 5 to 10 °C
- outside: temperature minimum -5 °C
- ideal locations: winter garden, stairwell, balcony, terrace, unheated greenhouse, bedroom
- Place outside in a shady place and wrap the pot with foil or fleece
- if indoor temperatures are too high: risk of pest infestation is higher
Care during and shortly after the winter period
The skimmia should never be fertilized in winter. Watering is important because this is an evergreen plant. Water enough in winter to prevent the soil from drying out. Watering can be increased again from February/March. Fertilizing should not be started again before March.
Tip
The skimmia is a beautiful decoration in the house at Christmas time with its red flower buds (male)/red fruits (female). However, it should not be placed in the warm living room. The sudden change in temperature can take a toll on her.
