The pretty lantana comes from the temperate zones of Central America and thrives there in sunny locations on slightly sandy soils. From the beginning of June until October, the small flower umbels open, which change color from the time they bloom until they finish blooming, giving this plant its special appeal.
Can the lantana tolerate frost?
The lantana is not hardy and cannot tolerate frost. Temperatures below 5 degrees can damage the plant. To protect them, you should bring the lantana indoors in good time and overwinter in a room with constant temperatures between 5 and 10 degrees.
The lantana is not hardy
In most cases, frost not only stops the flowering, but also causes severe damage to the small shrub. That's why lantana is mostly cultivated as a container plant in our region. If you have transplanted the plant into the flower bed, you have to dig it up in good time and bring it into the house. Even temperatures below five degrees can mean the end of the plant.
How do you overwinter?
You can overwinter the lantana in the living room, in a cold, bright room and even in a darkened basement. The only important thing is that the temperature is constantly between five and ten degrees. Before wintering, the small shrub is also cut back.
The lantana can become bald in its winter quarters
During the winter months, the cooled lantana loses most of its leaves due to the change. However, it sprouts again willingly in spring and quickly produces new flowers after it turns green.
Don’t forget to water
Even in winter quarters, the pot ball must be kept constantly moist. Water moderately whenever the top few inches feel dry. Waterlogging or complete moistening of the substrate should be avoided as the plant is very prone to root rot.
When can the lantana be allowed back outdoors
Only when there is no longer any risk of night frost can you bring the lantana back onto the balcony or terrace. Be sure to slowly acclimate the plant to the changed conditions and do not place it in direct sunlight immediately. After about two weeks, the lantana has changed and can move to its final summer spot.
Tip
During the winter, the lantana is very susceptible to whiteflies (€10.00 at Amazon). Therefore, check regularly for infestations, as the tiny insects can damage the plant so much that it dies.
