The gorgeous, free-blooming Flowering Maple (Abutilon) originally hails from the warm tropics of Brazil. Because of those sunny roots, this beauty is used to balmy weather and definitely isn’t a fan of freezing temperatures. If you want yours to thrive year after year, a little winter prep is a must!
Flowering Maples Aren’t Cold-Hardy
Since Flowering Maples come from regions where the thermometer rarely, if ever, dips below freezing, they just aren’t built for the cold. In fact, these plants are at their happiest when it’s 65°F (18°C) or warmer. Anything close to a frost is a big “no-no” for them.
Finding the Perfect Winter Temperature
When you move your plant indoors for the season, try to find a spot that stays consistently cool but not cold. The “sweet spot” is usually between 55°F and 60°F (12–16°C). You really want to avoid letting the temperature drop below 54°F (12°C) if you can help it.
Avoid Temperature Shocks
One thing to keep in mind is that Flowering Maples can be a bit dramatic when it comes to sudden changes. They hate abrupt temperature swings! Before you move them into their winter home, give them a little time to adjust to the change. The same goes for the spring: don’t just toss them back into the blazing sun. Gradually acclimate them to the outdoors so they don’t go into shock.
Prepping Your Plant for Winter Rest
To make the transition to winter quarters as stress-free as possible, start slowing things down ahead of time:
- Cut back on watering.
- Stop fertilizing entirely.
- Gradually move the plant to cooler spots to get it ready for its winter nap.
Watch Out for Late Spring Frosts
When spring finally rolls around, don’t be in too much of a hurry to move your plant back outside. Keep a close eye on those nighttime lows! It’s best to wait until the danger of frost has completely passed (usually after Mother’s Day or the “Ice Saints” in mid-May). A single frosty night can do serious damage or even kill a plant that’s been cozy indoors all winter.
Extra Care for Seedlings and Cuttings
If you’re propagating your Flowering Maple, remember that babies are even more sensitive than grown-up plants. Keep your seedlings and cuttings indoors in a warm, bright spot the whole time. If temperatures dip below 60°F (16°C), those little guys might not make it, and all your hard work could be for nothing!
