Even if your plants are labeled “hardy,” they usually need a little extra TLC to make it through a rough winter. This is especially true for container plants, which are much more vulnerable than those tucked safely in the ground. If you want your potted favorites to bounce back in the spring, here’s how to keep them cozy.
Protecting Plants Outdoors
While hardy plants in garden beds can usually fend for themselves, container plants are a different story. Because their root balls are above ground, they’re way more exposed to freezing temps. If you’re wintering your pots outside, protecting those roots is priority number one. Start by moving your pots to a spot shielded from harsh winds and heavy rain—up against the house is usually a good bet.
To insulate from the bottom up, set your pots on a thick wooden board or a piece of Styrofoam to keep the ground chill away. Then, wrap the pot in an old blanket or a few layers of burlap, leaving the foliage exposed at the top. This keeps the air circulating while creating a warm “hug” for the sensitive root system.
Moving Indoors for the Season
Depending on where your plants originally came from, they’ll have different needs for their indoor winter home. At the very least, the space should be frost-free. For most plants, a steady 40-45°F (around 5°C) is perfect. However, if you’ve got tropical exotics, they’ll need a bright spot that stays between 50°F and 60°F. If they’re inside and at the right temperature, you usually don’t need extra wrapping.
To Water or Not to Water?
Many container plants go dormant in the fall, dropping their leaves and waiting for spring to wake up. These deciduous plants need very little water—if any—during the winter. Just check on them occasionally; for some species, you don’t want the root ball to turn into a complete dust bowl, so a tiny splash of water every now and then helps.
Evergreens are a totally different story. Because they keep their leaves, they continue to lose moisture through evaporation, so they definitely need regular watering. If they’re staying outside, only water them on days when the ground isn’t frozen. If you water during a deep freeze, the water will just turn to ice before the roots can even take a sip!
The Quick Cheat Sheet:
- Keep non-hardy plants in a frost-free winter spot; tropicals need it warmer (50-60°F).
- Evergreens need plenty of light, air, and consistent water.
- If staying outside, always insulate the root ball.
- For extra-sensitive plants, wrap the branches/foliage too.
- Great DIY insulators: Styrofoam, wood planks, old blankets, or burlap sacks.
- Timing is everything: Don’t pack them away too early, and don’t uncover them until the threat of night frost has passed.
Pro Tip: Don’t be fooled by a “hardy” label! Even the toughest plants can freeze if they’re in a pot because the container just doesn’t provide enough insulation for the roots compared to the earth.