Reed often adorns river and lake banks in our country and can still be observed even in snow and cold. It is therefore reasonable to assume that reeds are hardy. But are all types of reeds winter hardy? Do you need winter protection in your garden or pond? Find out here!
Is reed hardy and does it need winter protection?
Reed, both reed and miscanthus, is hardy and can withstand temperatures down to -20 degrees. In principle, they do not need winter protection. If overwintered in the pot, protective measures such as mulch or insulating material should be applied to the pot.
Where are reeds native?
Reeds can be found almost everywhere in the world, except in particularly hot, tropical areas. It is widespread in Europe and especially in Northern Europe. Reed therefore tolerates a very wide range of temperatures and climatic conditions. Miscanthus comes, as the name suggests, from China, but is also native to Japan and Korea.
How hardy is reed?
Both reed and Miscanthus are naturally extremely robust and hardy. Both can easily tolerate temperatures down to -20 degrees or even colder. But beware! Newer varieties may have lower winter hardiness. Be sure to ask about winter hardiness when purchasing.
Does reeds need winter protection?
Due to its good winter hardiness, reeds basically do not need any winter protection. However, there are a few things to keep in mind and, especially in very cold climates, a little caution is better than cure.
- Do not cut back reeds before winter! The leaves protect the roots from cold and moisture.
- Tie the leaves together at the top so that they don't break in a storm.
- In very cold regions you can protect miscanthus from the cold with some mulch or similar.
Overwintering reeds in pots
Miscanthus can also be overwintered outdoors in a pot. However, you should take protective precautions here: in the fall, add a good amount of mulch or brushwood around the roots and wrap the pot in a blanket or other insulating material. You should also make sure that the pot is as sheltered from the wind as possible. Reeds in the pot should be moved to a frost-free place. Otherwise, the water will freeze completely and can destroy both the pot and the roots of the reed.