Broom (or Ginster, as some call it) is a fantastic way to add a pop of color and energy to your backyard. For the most part, these plants are pretty low-maintenance, but when the temperature starts to drop, you’ll want to keep a few things in mind. Here is everything you need to know to make sure your broom survives the winter chill.
Is Broom Actually Winter-Hardy?
You’ll often hear people say that broom is winter-hardy, but that’s a bit of an oversimplification. “Broom” is actually a broad term covering many different species with very different needs. Some varieties hail from chilly spots like Scandinavia or Poland, while others are native to the sunny, warm Mediterranean.
Because of this, not every broom plant can handle a deep freeze. Common Broom (Genista) and Gorse (Ulex europaeus) are tough cookies and can definitely handle the winter. However, varieties like Scotch Broom (Cytisus scoparius) usually need a little extra protection from frost. Then you have species like Spiny Broom (Calicotome spinosa), which won’t survive a frost at all. My best advice? Check the tag or do a quick search before you plant your broom to make sure it’s a good fit for your local climate.
How to Overwinter Your Broom
If you have young plants facing their first winter or a broom growing in a container, you definitely need to provide some frost protection. For potted plants, the biggest risk is the root ball freezing solid, so consider wrapping the pot or moving it to a sheltered spot. Hardy varieties planted in the ground usually don’t need much help, but here’s a pro tip: avoid pruning your broom right before winter. Those fresh cuts are super sensitive to frost. Also, make sure you plant them early enough in the season so they can establish a strong root system before the ground freezes.
If your variety is only “moderately” hardy, a layer of mulch or a burlap wrap can help, but keep in mind that a particularly long or brutal winter can still be tough on them. For the non-hardy varieties, your best bet is to move them into a cool, frost-free greenhouse until spring.
Winter Care Checklist
- Not all broom species handle the cold the same way.
- Always double-check which specific variety you have in your garden.
- Young plants and container-grown broom need extra TLC and frost protection.
- Common Broom and Gorse are generally very winter-hardy.
- Scotch Broom usually requires a bit of protection from the frost.
- Tender varieties like Spiny Broom should spend the winter in a cool greenhouse.
