If you leave your Japanese myrtle to the winter garden, you won't see a living leaf from it in the spring, let alone a flower. You can guess what circumstance will be responsible for this disappointment. Yes, it's the cold! Here's how to protect this plant from her.
How do I overwinter my Japanese myrtle?
In order to overwinter the Japanese myrtle successfully, it should be kept indoors at temperatures between 5 and 10 degrees Celsius, with plenty of light and enough space. Regular watering, fertilizing and pest control should be maintained.
Zero frost tolerance
Even if the name refers to Japan, the plant clearly comes from South America. Presumably from areas that have a mild climate all year round. This explains why the Japanese myrtle in this country “shivers” at just 2 degrees Celsius. It is definitely not hardy.
Prolong life
The habit of cultivating this plant as an annual should be abandoned. Isn't it nobler to thank her for the numerous flowers in the summer and offer her a sheltered place in the house in the winter? That wouldn't be completely selfless, because after the winter the next magnificent flowering period awaits.
Time for protection
Don't wait until the first frost comes. The Japanese myrtle can still spend sunny autumn days outdoors. But if the temperature values are permanently close to zero, it is time to go to winter quarters. Planted specimens must be potted beforehand.
Winter accommodation as desired
In this country, the Japanese myrtle wants a winter quarters that offers it the following living conditions:
- Temperature between 5 and 10 degrees Celsius
- lots of light
- generous space
Tip
If the winter quarters are very cramped, it is better to cut the myrtle back a little than to squeeze it between other plants.
Care during the rest period
Japanese myrtle, also known as false heather or quiverflower, does not let its leaves fall to the ground in autumn. That's why care must not be paused during the winter rest period.
- water modestly every now and then
- Administer some fertilizer every 6 to 8 weeks
- check regularly for pests
End hibernation
As soon as it gets sunnier and therefore warmer outside, the myrtle is drawn to the fresh air. But we must not let them go too quickly. Night frosts can still come until mid-May. Wait until you move it out or bring the plant back in when the temperature reaches unfavorable values.
If the Japanese myrtle remains in the pot over the summer, it should be repotted at the time of moving out.
