As an evergreen shrub, the myrtle offers a decorative look all year round. But can it also decorate the garden in winter or can it not tolerate cold temperatures? You can find out the answer in this article.
Is myrtle hardy?
The myrtle (Myrtus communis) is not hardy and cannot tolerate temperatures below -5 degrees Celsius. In its winter quarters it needs a frost-free, cool location with temperatures between 5 and 10 degrees Celsius and plenty of brightness.
Is myrtle hardy?
The common myrtle (Myrtus communis) isnot hardy The plant, which originally comes from the Mediterranean region, cannot tolerate temperatures below -5 degrees Celsius. The frost-sensitive shrub must be placed in a protected place over the winter and is therefore best cultivated in a pot all year round.
What location does the myrtle need in winter?
The myrtle's winter quarters should befrost-free, but as cool as possible. Temperatures between 5 and 10 degrees Celsius are ideal. If the location is warmer, it loses its leaves. The myrtle needs a very bright location even in winter so that the evergreen leaves can continue to photosynthesize. It can be overwintered well together with lemon and orange trees, as these have the same wintering requirements as the myrtle.
How much care is necessary in winter?
The myrtle requires less care in winter, but it is still important towater it regularly Evaporation also occurs through the evergreen leaves during the winter and the water released must go over the roots are absorbed again. The roots must never dry out. Otherwise no further care is necessary. After the Ice Saints or the last frost, the myrtle can be put outside again.
Tip
Japanese myrtle and mock myrtle are also not hardy
Despite its name, the Japanese myrtle has no relation to the common myrtle from a botanical point of view. It comes from South America and belongs to the genus of quiverflowers. The mock myrtle also bears the name of the myrtle, but is not related to it. The plant, which is native to India, belongs to the moonseed family. Despite the lack of a relationship, both plants require the same conditions for their winter quarters as Myrtle communis and are not hardy.
