How Do You Protect Outdoor Potted Plants in the Winter?

It’s important to protect outdoor potted plants in the winter for them to survive the cold season. Potted plants are more sensitive to cold temperatures than those that are planted in the ground because they don’t have as much protection from the elements.

To help your outdoor potted plants survive even the harshest winter months, there are a few steps you can take to ensure their health and longevity.

Choose the Right Plants

First and foremost, it’s important to select plants that are able to tolerate cold temperatures. Hardy perennials and annuals, such as pansies, violas, alyssum and ornamental cabbage and kale, are ideal choices for winter potted plants because they can withstand frosts and snow.

Choose Protecting Containers

You should also choose containers that can protect your plants from extreme temperatures. Terra cotta pots tend to absorb heat during the day and release it at night, which is not ideal for winter months when temperatures drop drastically after dark. Plastic or glazed ceramic pots retain heat better than terra cotta pots.

Protect Your Plants with Mulch

Using a thick layer of mulch around your outdoor potted plants will help insulate their roots from freezing temperatures. Choose an organic mulch such as straw, bark chips or leaves. This will also help keep your soil moist throughout the winter months.

Water Properly

It is important not to overwater your outdoor potted plants during the winter months; this can cause root rot if water pools around their roots or if their containers don’t have proper drainage holes. Watering only when needed will help ensure that your potted plants stay healthy in the winter months.

Conclusion

By taking these protective measures for your outdoor potted plants in the winter, you can ensure their health and longevity through even the coldest of seasons!


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Alex Wright