If possible, only tree species that are sufficiently hardy for the respective region should be planted in the garden. If this is not the case, these trees should be cultivated in pots and housed according to their needs over the winter months - for example in a cold room or, for exotic trees, in warmer temperatures.
How can trees overwinter safely?
To protect trees in winter, hardy trees should receive mulch or branches on the tree cover, while fruit trees need a coat of lime. Potted trees require an insulating base, a wall nearby and possibly a cold protection fleece.
Winter protection for hardy trees
But even hardy trees benefit from certain protective measures that can, for example, minimize or even prevent damage caused by dry frost. Shallow-rooted plants are also at risk in cold but snowless winters because their roots can freeze. You can protect the latter by spreading a thick layer of mulching material on the tree disc or covering it with fir or spruce branches. Trunk and branches can be protected from frost damage with a coat of lime; this measure is particularly recommended for fruit trees in exposed, very sunny locations.
Tip
Trees in pots need good winter protection, even if they are hardy. Place the pot on an insulating surface (wood or Styrofoam), move it to a warm wall and, if necessary, cover the tree with a cold protection fleece.
