The evening primroses found in many gardens delight with their striking, very bright flower color. There are numerous different species and varieties, but they are all more or less hardy. All evening primroses can spend the winter outdoors without worry; they generally tolerate frost very well. Only winter wetness can cause problems.
Are evening primroses hardy and how do you protect them in winter?
Evening primroses are generally hardy and tolerate frost well. In the garden they only need light winter protection, such as spruce branches. For potted plants, an insulating base and additional protection with spruce branches are recommended. Waterlogging should be avoided.
Evening primrose in the garden
Evening primroses planted in the garden can remain there over the winter, regardless of the type and variety. All evening primroses are generally considered hardy, although some are a little more sensitive to winter weather conditions than others. A light winter protection can therefore do no harm. To do this, cover the plant with a few spruce branches, which also have the advantage that drying and falling needles still allow enough light and air to reach the plant underneath. However, pruning as a winter preparation measure is not necessary.
Be careful of waterlogging
Although most types of evening primrose tolerate even very deep frosts excellently, they still die in winter. The reason is not the cold, but excessive wetness. That's why you should plant the flowering perennial in a location that is as dry as possible - garden owners are usually aware of which corners of their property get particularly wet in winter.
Evening primrose in pot
In contrast to planted specimens, evening primroses in pots need a little more attention. Since the roots can freeze more quickly in the narrow planters, basic winter protection is absolutely necessary. To do this, place the pot on an insulating surface so that the cold cannot penetrate from below. One of the things that has proven suitable for this is: Styrofoam (€7.00 on Amazon) has been proven. The plant is also covered with a few spruce branches and placed in a protected but bright corner. Don't forget to water the plant from time to time on frost-free days. However, waterlogging should be avoided at all costs.
Tip
In early spring you can give the evening primrose a jump-start into the new growth season with some compost or other organic fertilizer.
