The silver rain, which is considered non-toxic, looks quite impressive with its long, swinging shoots and the silvery, hairy leaves that cling to them. But does it lose out in winter or is it well hardy?
Is Silver Rain hardy?
Is the silver rain hardy? No, silver rain is not hardy in Central Europe because it comes from tropical and subtropical areas and cannot tolerate frost. To overwinter it should be kept in a pot or box in a bright, cool place.
Not hardy in this country
Unfortunately, silver rain is not hardy in this country. It does not tolerate frost. Even temperatures of around 0 °C put the plant under stress and cause it to freeze. The tender shoots are damaged first. Eventually the roots freeze.
The reason why this creeper is not hardy in this country or generally not tolerant of frost is because it originates in tropical to subtropical areas. It is not adapted to frost. For this reason it is usually cultivated as an annual in Central Europe.
Overwintering the Silver Rain
Are you very attached to your silver shower? Then you can overwinter it! This is how it works:
- cut back in autumn before the first frost
- Get the pot/box in
- place in a bright place
- Temperatures between 10 and 15 °C are ideal
- well suited: cool bedrooms, cold houses, stairwells, winter gardens
There is not much to consider during wintering. It is important that the earth does not dry out. Therefore, the silver rain should be watered sparingly from time to time. You should avoid fertilizing completely, because this plant is intended to slow down its growth and not accelerate it! In spring you can repot the silver rain.
Simply sow again in spring
If you didn't feel like going through the process of overwintering or something went wrong during the wintering, don't worry: Silver Rain can be re-sown in spring without any problems. All you need are the seeds
It is best if you sow the seeds at home around mid-January. They are placed in pots with sowing soil or covered thinly with soil. Then keep the soil moist and place it in a warm place. At room temperature, the seeds germinate within 2 weeks.
Tip
If you plant the silver rain outdoors, the chances of overwintering are poor. Therefore, pot or box culture is generally preferable.
