The days are getting shorter and the first night frosts are approaching. This is a dangerous time, and not just for plants, if there is no sufficient protection against the cold. Your plant pot can also crack in sub-zero temperatures. In this guide you can read all about the precautionary measures to take now.
How do I winterize planters?
To make planters winter-proof, you should install drainage, raise the location, insulate the pot and protect the plants. Wooden and ceramic pots in particular need this protection to avoid cracking in sub-zero temperatures.
Which planters are at risk?
Plant pots made of wood or ceramic are particularly at risk of bursting in winter. In contrast to stone pots, the material absorbs moisture. If it freezes, it expands. The bucket cannot withstand this pressure. Plant pots made of fiberglass, on the other hand, are considered very robust. Even in summer, they protect your plants from aggressive UV rays.
General note: You should always coat a wooden bucket with a glaze to protect it.
Protect planters from frost
The following steps are required when overwintering planters:
- Install drainage
- Increase location
- Insulate the bucket
- Protect plants
Install drainage
If you plant your flower pot in the fall, you must ensure that the irrigation water drains away. If the liquid builds up in the substrate, it's not just your plant that is damaged. If the water freezes, it expands and causes the pot to burst. The drainage layer should be at least one tenth of the bucket. Instructions for precise filling can be found on this page.
Increase location
If your plant pot is placed directly on the ground, the water will only drain to a limited extent. In winter, even the popular coaster is not a solution. When it snows, condensation collects in the bowl and freezes. It is therefore better to place your plant pot on a garden chair or on a shelf.
Insulate the bucket
If the temperatures are very below zero, you should wrap your plant pot with fleece (€34.00 on Amazon) or bubble wrap. Winter protection does not have to represent a visual reduction. Coconut mats, jute or straw look very natural and maintain the charm of a cottage garden.
Protect plants
Ultimately, you should also protect the plants in your container from frost. If the roots are also covered with soil, they are the most sensitive part of the plant. Cover the substrate with a layer of mulch.
