Euonymus (often called Spindle Bush) is known for being a pretty tough plant, and many varieties can handle a quick dip into freezing temperatures without breaking a sweat. However, I wouldn’t go so far as to call them “bulletproof” when it comes to winter. Let’s dive into when and how you should give your Spindle Bush a little extra TLC during the cold months.
Winter Protection for Your Spindle Bush
Native varieties, like the European Spindle (Pfaffenhütchen), are generally the hardiest of the bunch and can usually survive the winter without much help. But even these tough guys can start to struggle if the thermometer stays below 23°F (-5°C) for a long stretch. Since we can’t always trust the weatherman, it’s always better to be safe than sorry with some basic protection.
Other varieties are a bit more sensitive to the cold. Regardless of which type you have, young plants in their first year always need a helping hand to make it through their first winter. Also, keep in mind that container-grown plants are much more vulnerable to frost damage, so you’ll definitely want to take action there.
Prepping Your Spindle Bush for the Cold
Preparation actually starts the day you plant! Choosing the right location is key. Plus, keeping up with regular pruning keeps your shrub young and vigorous, which naturally makes it more resilient when winter hits.
To protect the root system from the deep freeze, cover the ground around the base of your plant with a protective mulch layer. You can use:
- Wood mulch
- Evergreen boughs
- Fallen leaves
Caring for Potted Spindle Bushes
Plants in pots are at a much higher risk for frost damage because their roots aren’t insulated by the ground. If possible, move your containers to a sheltered spot for the winter. It doesn’t need to be super bright, but a little natural light is good. If you don’t have a shed or garage to move them into, wrap the pots in burlap, frost fleece, or even bubble wrap to keep the roots cozy.
Winter Maintenance Tips
Don’t put your watering can away just yet! Your Spindle Bush still needs a drink during the winter, though much less frequently than in the summer. Just make sure the root ball doesn’t dry out completely. As for fertilizer? You can skip it—your plants don’t need the extra nutrients while they’re resting for the season.
