Winter-hardy balcony plants do not have to be put away in autumn and unnecessarily take up space in the basement. However, frost-resistant perennials and trees cannot easily overwinter outside. This guide gets to the heart of the precautions that can be taken to ensure hardy plants in boxes and pots can survive the winter unscathed.
How can hardy balcony plants overwinter outside?
To successfully overwinter hardy balcony plants outside, place them in niches protected from the wind, place them on wood or Styrofoam, wrap the containers with fleece or bubble wrap and coconut mats, and cover the substrate with straw, leaves or coniferous twigs. Water regularly on frost-free days.
Winter coat for the root ball – it’s that easy
In the exposed location on the balcony, the information on winter hardiness only applies to a limited extent. Behind the narrow walls of the box and pot, the root balls of balcony plants are exposed to frosty temperatures with almost no protection. So that hardy perennials and ornamental shrubs can stay outside, we recommend the following precautions before the first frost:
- Move the balcony box and pot into a wind-protected niche
- Place the containers on wood or Styrofoam plates
- Wrap with several layers of fleece (€34.00 on Amazon) or a combination of bubble wrap and coconut mats
- Cover the substrate with straw, leaves, wood wool or needle twigs
Woody balcony plants also receive a transparent cover for the young branches in their first winter. Regular watering is important for successful wintering. Bright winter weather with severe frost and sunshine dries out the substrate. On mild days, you should patrol outside with your watering can.
