Although the oleander requires little attention in terms of general care, it requires species-appropriate winter protection. When the impressive flowers open the following spring, you'll know the effort was worth it. Read on this page how to protect the shrub from the cold in winter.
How do I properly protect oleanders in winter?
Winter protection for oleanders includes bringing them into a bright, cool, dry and wind-protected winter quarters (5-10°C) in good time or wrapping them with fleece outdoors when it is frosty. In addition, the pot should be insulated and regular checks as well as reserved watering and fertilizing should be carried out.
Bringing oleander into the house
The oleander comes from the warm Mediterranean countries and feels most comfortable in the fresh air in bright sunshine. Since the plant can tolerate slightly sub-zero temperatures for a short time, you should delay winter protection as long as possible. An exact recommendation cannot be given. It's best to use the outside temperature as a guide, which should also be used as a factor for the end of hibernation.
Demands on the winter quarters
- bright
- cool (preferably 5°C to 10°C)
- dry
- sheltered from the wind
Recommended locations in winter
- cool staircases
- unheated winter gardens
- special winter tents
- Greenhouses
Tip
The oleander places special demands on lighting conditions during wintering. Depending on the temperature, you should adjust the brightness. This means that the colder it is, the darker the location can be. In general, the oleander should not be illuminated for more than ten hours a day, unless temperatures rise significantly above 10°C. If the winter quarters do not allow these conditions due to the early setting sun, artificial lighting can help (€21.00 on Amazon).
Wintering oleander outside
If the weather forecast predicts severe frost, you should wrap the oleander with fleece as usual with other plants. It is not advisable to use foil as mold quickly forms. However, a fleece can only remain in place for a few days. Otherwise, the lack of light would cause the shrub to die. In any case, you should insulate the pot. Place the oleander in a sheltered, covered place, preferably on a house wall.
Further care measures in winter
- Check the condition of the oleander daily.
- Water and fertilize the shrub only when temperatures rise briefly.
- At the end of winter rest, cut back the branches and repot the oleander.
Note: Yellow leaves are a clear sign that the substrate is too wet.
