Mock Orange is a total champ when it comes to winter weather, so you don’t have to worry about moving it to a special shelter when the temperature drops. I’m going to walk you through exactly how to handle your Mock Orange during the chilly months to keep it happy and healthy.
Is Mock Orange Winter Hardy?
The short answer is yes—Mock Orange is completely winter hardy. Unlike its cousin, Common Jasmine (which can be a bit of a diva about the cold), Mock Orange doesn’t need to be brought indoors to survive. In fact, these sturdy shrubs can handle freezing temperatures as low as -4 degrees Fahrenheit (-20°C) all on their own.
Part of the reason they’re so tough is that they’re well-adapted to our climate and grow deep, strong root systems. These deep roots stay tucked away from the biting surface cold. While the branches above ground might suffer a little frostbite during a particularly brutal cold snap, don’t panic! You can simply prune those bits back in the spring, and the plant will bounce right back with fresh new growth and buds.
Extra Love for Young Plants
Even though Mock Orange is generally a “set it and forget it” plant for winter, youngsters need a little extra help. Since their root systems haven’t had the chance to dig deep into the soil yet, they’re more vulnerable to freezing than the older, established bushes.
To keep your young plants cozy, try mulching around the base with:
- Dried leaves,
- Straw,
- Compost,
- Or similar organic material.
This mulch layer acts like a warm blanket for the roots and helps keep the soil from drying out. While the top of the plant will usually recover on its own in the spring, you can always wrap it in some winter fleece, a coconut mat, or a burlap sack if you want to give it some extra protection against the elements.
Winter Maintenance Tips
For the most part, Mock Orange is very low-maintenance during the winter. However, if you’re having a particularly dry winter, it’s a good idea to give it a little water every now and then to keep the roots hydrated. Just make sure you only water on days when the ground isn’t frozen! Otherwise, the water will just turn to ice and never reach the roots. One last tip: put the fertilizer away for the season—your Mock Orange doesn’t need any extra “food” until the growing season starts back up.
