The saxifrage family (Saxifraga) occurs in several hundred different species and is characterized by a low, cushion-like growth and delicate, perennial flowers. Since many saxifrage species also occur in extreme high mountain locations, they are generally considered to be very robust and resilient.
Are saxifrage plants hardy?
Saxifrage plants (Saxifraga) are generally hardy and robust. In order to optimally protect them in winter, a suitable location is crucial: well-drained soil, no extreme temperature fluctuations and a blanket of snow. Young plants can also be covered with leaves, brushwood or conifer cuttings.
Make sure you have the right location
Since the saxifrage only extends its roots a few centimeters into the ground, it does not require very deep soil and can also thrive in the crevices of a rock garden or in the cracks of a dry stone wall. Depending on the variety, it may be better to plant it in full sun or partial shade. While many Mediterranean plant species are grateful for a protected location warmed by the sun even in winter, extreme temperature fluctuations can be more damaging to the saxifrage. Therefore, if possible, do not choose a location where temperature fluctuations of up to 30 degrees or more occur on sunny winter days. Most Saxifraga species prefer to rest under a continuous blanket of snow throughout the winter.
Moisture as a determining factor
A comparison of different locations of Saxifraga representatives often shows that phases of dryness and heat are better tolerated than permanently wet or overly shady locations. To prevent waterlogging in winter, the substrate for the saxifrage should be mixed with a little sand or gravel before planting. If winter plant damage occurs despite sufficient drainage and snow cover, this may also be due to drying out. Unfortunately, the shallow-rooted saxifrage plants tend to lose contact with the soil when washed out or increased growth.
Better cover freshly planted specimens
Saxifrage plants that have been propagated by division or purchased commercially can still be planted in new locations in the garden in the fall. However, it can make sense to provide these plants with simple winter protection for the first winter. This can, for example, consist of the following materials:
- dry leaves
- Twigs/brushwood
- Fir cuttings/spruce, pine and fir needles
To counteract soil acidification caused by composted conifer cuttings, you can do something good for the lime-loving saxifrage with regular, small portions of garden lime (€19.00 at Amazon).
Tip
Do not use bubble wrap or similar airtight materials as a winter cover for the saxifrage. These would increase the temperature fluctuations between day and night and thus damage the plants.