The name hardly suggests it. But spice bark actually represents a large, magnificently flowering plant. The bright yellow flowers will not last through the winter. But will new ones emerge next year? If the plant is overwintered correctly, definitely!
How should you overwinter the spice bark?
In order to overwinter the spice bark successfully, it should be moved to a frost-free area with temperatures between 5 and 10 degrees Celsius, placed in a light or dark place without strong temperature fluctuations and watered sparingly every two weeks, without fertilizer.
Settle in early
Spice bark, which is called that because it smells so nice and spicy, doesn't like frost. Please also avoid temperatures below 5 degrees Celsius. If the trend goes in this direction, it is an unmistakable invitation to the owner: lift the pot and go where the frost cannot follow!
Your feel-good area
Freedom from frost alone is not enough to get the spice bark he althy and vital through the winter. The location presented to her should have the following characteristics:
- Temperature values between 5 and 10 degrees Celsius
- under no circumstances below 2 degrees Celsius
- without strong temperature fluctuations during the day
The spice bark can overwinter in warmer temperatures, but this involves risks. Warm temperatures promote lice, which can significantly weaken or even kill the plant.
Light incidence
A bright room is recommended. However, the spice bark is tolerant and patiently endures even in dark places. Then the temperature should also be in the lower range. Can the foliage that then becomes thinner and thinner be viewed as a disadvantage? Rather no.
We will probably hardly visit the cool winter quarters to admire the spice bark. With the wilted flowers, their attractiveness has also been lost. The fact that it will soon be completely without leaves in the dark area actually benefits the plant. This means you have a greater chance of escaping aphids.
Tip
Collect fallen leaves as soon as possible to prevent them from rotting in the pot.
Cut back as needed
The spice bark does not have to be entered into winter quarters with a new cut. However, if it is necessary for reasons of space, you can safely use scissors and cut them to fit. Otherwise, only shorten the plant by about a third in spring.
Care
Out of sight, out of mind? Please don't! Even in winter, the spice bark should not be forgotten. Even though its growth is at a standstill for the time being, it still needs water to compensate for the loss through evaporation. Water in small amounts every two weeks. If it stands with bare branches, even less water is needed.
You can leave the fertilizer package in the cupboard during the winter.
Later Excerpt
After the Ice Saints there is no longer any risk of frostbite. If the weather cooperates, the spice bark can be put outside earlier. If unexpected late frosts threaten, it has to retreat again.
