The gentian bush is not hardy. This characteristic is not compatible with the local climate. Consequently, its owner must play temperature guard and adjust its location accordingly. But every gardener is powerless against the weather. Is there a clever solution?
Is the gentian bush (Solanum Rantonnetii) hardy?
The gentian bush (Solanum Rantonnetii) is not hardy and cannot tolerate temperatures below 7 °C. For successful overwintering, it needs a frost-free, bright quarters with consistently mild temperatures above 7 °C.
The origin of the plant
If you want to find out more about a plant, you have to go back to its origins. The native home of the gentian bush will give us important clues about its winter hardiness. Because it is naturally designed for the conditions of this area.
Solanum rantonnetii inhabits warm areas of South America that do not experience sub-zero temperatures. This suggests that the shrub cannot develop winter hardiness. And indeed that is the case! The gentian bush is not hardy and even needs temperatures above 7 °C.
Overwintering quarters are mandatory in this country
The cold tolerance is so low that overwintering outdoors is out of the question. Only the brave dare to do this with plenty of protective measures and only in mild regions of the country. Therefore, planted specimens must be dug up in good time and become potted plants.
The gentian bush needs suitable winter quarters where it can overwinter safely.
- continuously frost-free
- temperatures above 7 °C are ideal
- it should be light
- the leaves fall in the dark
Tip
Don't worry if leaves fall off due to lack of light. The bush will sprout again in spring, but this will delay flowering. Don't forget to collect all leaves promptly so that mold doesn't have a chance.
Start of wintering
Every year the weather decides when wintering has to begin. This can sometimes come very “surprisingly” and “suddenly”. Stay flexible. Check the gentian bush for lice and other pests and cut it down if there is not enough space in the area.
Care in winter
Care must not be forgotten in winter quarters. It only consists of occasional watering, because fertilization is not allowed during this rest period. Additionally check the plant for pests. Especially when the winter quarters are warm.
Leaving winter quarters
If the weather is unexpectedly mild in spring, the gentian bush can soak up the sunlight outside for hours. However, he is only allowed to leave his winter quarters permanently when the calendar shows mid-May. Then it can be assumed that there will be no frost at night. Plant Solanum Rantonnetii in the garden or leave it in a pot. Then it should be given fresh soil if you want to admire plenty of flowers.
