Abelia, a member of the honeysuckle family, enchants many a garden and park with its many fragrant flowers. However, most varieties of the often evergreen Abelia are only partially hardy. The shrub should therefore be grown in a bucket in rough locations.
Are abelias hardy and how can you protect them?
Abelias are conditionally hardy and can tolerate temperatures down to minus 12 degrees if they are planted in protected locations. In harsh climates, Abelias should be grown in pots and overwintered frost-free, with suitable winter protection measures such as mulching or protective materials.
The Abelia cannot tolerate temperatures that are too low
The Abelia and its large-flowered sister Abelia grandiflora can cope with temperatures down to minus 12 degrees - provided that the bushes are in a protected location and there is no frost outside for at least three weeks.
If you maintain your garden in a mild climate, you can safely plant the shrubs outdoors.
In harsh locations or when no convenient location is available, it is better to grow Abelias in a pot. Then you can easily overwinter the bushes in a sheltered spot on the terrace or in the cool winter garden.
Plant outdoors on house walls or in sheltered locations
Plant Abelias outdoors along walls or house walls, because there they are protected from the wind and the temperatures usually do not drop quite as much.
How to overwinter Abelias outdoors
You shouldn't forego winter protection for bushes that are only partially hardy. Abelias need particularly good winter protection, especially in the first year after planting.
Cover the soil with a thick mulch of leaves, mature compost or other organic materials.
The above-ground parts of the bush can be protected from frost with suitable materials:
- Reed mats
- Bubble Wrap
- Jute sacks
- Garden fleece
Overwintering Abelie in the bucket
In rough locations or to be on the safe side, it is better to plant Abelias in a pot straight away. You can then care for the shrubs outside from spring to fall. In late autumn, place the pots in the cool winter garden, frost-free and bright.
Water the shrubs moderately but regularly and check the abelias regularly for pests. Fertilizing is not necessary in winter.
In spring, take the Abelias out of their winter quarters, put them in larger pots and slowly get them used to the fresh air again.
Tip
Abelias also need moisture in winter. Water the shrubs occasionally when the top soil has dried and it has not frozen for at least three days.
