Posted on Dec 1, 2023 at 4:03 pm by Oliver C
Oleanders are generous plants that bloom for long months. However, they are sensitive to cold and must be protected during the winter.
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The first measures to take before winter
As long as the weather is mild and dry, it is best to leave potted or outdoor oleanders without protection, as they benefit from light and relative warmth.
However, it is recommended to overwinter potted oleanders during cold and humid periods, even if it does not freeze, as these conditions are not suitable for them and can weaken them.
It is therefore advisable to take certain precautions between mid-October and mid-November, depending on your geographical situation.
When to shelter oleanders?
When temperatures drop below -2°C, it is time to protect your oleanders. This mainly applies to potted oleanders. During cold and humid periods, even without frost, it is advisable to shelter them to avoid weakening them.
How to protect outdoor oleanders?
In regions where winters are not too harsh, such as the Atlantic coast for example, only young oleanders or those that are not too imposing need to be protected.
You can cover them with a winter cover, making sure to secure the base with stones to prevent the wind from getting in.
Also, consider placing a layer of dead leaves at the base of your oleander to provide additional thermal protection.
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Overwintering potted oleanders: preparing and bringing your plants indoors
First of all, it is advisable to remove all flowers, whether faded or not, as well as yellowed leaves. Then, place your oleanders in a cool and very bright room: a conservatory or a winter garden is ideal.
If you lack space or if the pots are too heavy to be brought indoors, it is possible to leave the shrubs outside by taking certain precautions.
- Protect the surface of the pot with dead leaves or straw.
- Surround the container with bubble wrap or flexible polystyrene.
- Finally, wrap several layers of winter cover around the shrub, making sure to secure the ends.
Don’t forget to water regularly during this period outdoors, as drying winds from the north or east can cause dehydration of the plant.
Do you have a question or a problem related to oleanders? Feel free to share your questions and experiences in the comments below. Finally, don’t forget to prepare your other plants for winter: overwinter other plants, prune shrubs, protect cold-sensitive perennials, and regularly inspect the condition of your plants to anticipate and effectively respond to weather fluctuations.
