The shrubs of the Weigela genus originally come from Asia. In contrast to local areas, they grow wild there. In this country, however, they can only be found in gardens or parks. An older weigela is quite hardy and robust.
Are Weigela hardy?
Weigeliums are generally hardy, older specimens in particular do not require winter protection. However, young weigelias and those in pots should be protected by plant fleece, layers of leaves or an old blanket. The root ball should not dry out in winter.
Does the weigela need winter protection?
A normal Central European winter usually doesn't bother the easy-care weigela much; it usually survives it very well even without winter protection. If you have planted a weigela in autumn, a thick layer of foliage (around 20 to 30 cm) is definitely recommended.
How do I care for a weigela in winter?
Even in winter, the root ball of your weigela must not dry out completely. The risk of dying of thirst is actually much greater than that of freezing to death. So water the weigela a little every now and then, but only on frost-free days if the irrigation water does not freeze immediately. However, you should avoid fertilizing your weigela in winter.
How do I overwinter young weigela?
Young shoots and/or bushes cannot always tolerate frost without being damaged. However, you can protect young plants very well with a special plant fleece (€7.00 on Amazon) that you wrap loosely around the bush. However, it is better for a homegrown weigela to spend its first winter in a frost-free winter quarters, for example in an unheated winter garden or in a greenhouse.
How do I overwinter a weigela in a pot?
A weigela can also be cultivated in a container, at least for a few years. Then you should think about moving it to the garden. Otherwise, a larger weigela may need special treatment: rejuvenation of the root ball.
The root ball in particular is at risk of freezing, so it should be protected from frost on all sides. Place the bucket on a Styrofoam or wooden plate and wrap it with an old blanket.
The most important things in brief:
- hardy in old age
- young weigela needs winter protection
- Protection of the root ball is necessary in the pot
- Don’t let the root ball dry out completely
Tip
A frost-free winter quarters is not absolutely necessary for a weigela in a pot.
