Oleanders aren’t naturally cold-hardy, which means they need a cozy spot indoors to survive the winter. But once spring rolls around, the way you transition them back outside is the real secret to getting those lush leaves and gorgeous blooms we all love.
Moving Your Oleander Back Outdoors
After wintering your oleander, timing is everything when it’s time to move it back to the patio.
The general rule of thumb? Bring them in as late as possible in the fall and get them back out as early as possible in the spring. However, you’ve got to keep a close eye on the thermometer. If your winter storage spot stayed above 50°F (10°C), your plant likely put out some tender new growth. These fresh shoots are super sensitive and will freeze right off if they hit a cold snap. Plants kept in cooler spots are usually a bit tougher and ready for the transition.
One big tip: don’t just plop your oleander into direct, blazing sun right away. Even though the early spring sun doesn’t feel that hot to us, it’s a huge shock for a plant that’s been sitting in a dim, cool corner for months. Give it a week or two in a sheltered, semi-shaded spot to get its “sun legs” back.
Post-Winter Care and Maintenance
Once your oleander is back outside, it’s going to need a little TLC to wake up properly. This boils down to two main things:
- A light pruning
- A good “starter” feeding
Pruning Your Oleander for Success
After the winter break, your oleander will benefit from a quick trim. Go ahead and snip off any old, dead, or spindly branches. This doesn’t just make the plant look better; it actually directs energy to the healthy stems and encourages fresh new growth.
While you’re at it, give the leaves and stems a good once-over for diseases or pests. Keep a special eye out for “dry rot” (canker), which is a common party crasher during the winter months.
Feeding Your Plant After Dormancy
Oleanders are “heavy feeders,” meaning they have a big appetite for nutrients. To get that growth spurt started, give your plant a solid dose of fertilizer right after it comes out of hibernation. This gives it the fuel it needs for a spectacular blooming season.
-Watch Out for Late Night Frosts
Even if the days feel like spring, those nighttime temperatures can still dip below freezing. If a frost is in the forecast, play it safe and wrap your oleander in some bubble wrap or a frost fleece. Those late-season freezes can cause some serious damage to a plant that’s just starting to wake up!
