Whether between stones in the rock garden, on dry stone walls, in the bed or rather in the balcony box - the Carpathian bellflower won't cause any trouble so quickly. But what does it look like in winter? Can it tolerate frost?
Is the Carpathian bluebell hardy?
The Carpathian bellflower is hardy and can withstand frost down to -40 °C. To protect them optimally, it is recommended to cover them with leaves, compost or brushwood in the root area at temperatures below -10 °C. Potted plants should also be wrapped in fleece and placed in a protected place.
Well prepared for the cold days
The perennial and evergreen Carpathian bellflower originally comes from the Carpathians. This is a high mountain range in southeastern Europe (including Romania). There it populates parts of the mountain forests. She can often be found between rocks and stones.
Due to its high- altitude homeland, the Carpathian bluebell is frost-tolerant. Low temperatures are not a problem for them. After all, various literature states that it is hardy down to -40 °C. However, you shouldn't necessarily challenge this minimum temperature
When should you overwinter them?
It is recommended not to overload the Carpathian bellflower or even to test its temperature minimum. It is best to protect this perennial when temperatures drop below -10°C. Protection is also advisable when there is severe frost. You can protect the perennial, for example, with leaves, compost or brushwood in the root area.
You should also overwinter potted plants:
- cut down in autumn
- Cover the pot with fleece (€34.00 on Amazon) so that the root ball does not freeze
- Place the pot on the wall of the house
- water sparingly every now and then
- alternatively: put in a cool place
Care during the winter period
In general, it is recommended not to cut back the Carpathian bellflower as an outdoor plant in autumn, but in spring. The stems protect the plant from moisture in the root area. The plants do not need any further care during the winter. They should only be divided and provided with compost in the spring.
During the winter, potted plants should be watered little and not fertilized. It is also good if you take time regularly to check the plants (especially if they are overwintered indoors) for pests and diseases. They are particularly vulnerable in warmer rooms.
Tip
If you don't prune your Carpathian bluebell in the fall, it is likely that it will disperse its seeds and thus multiply on its own.
