Not Winter Hardy

Are you tired of losing valuable garden plants to harsh winter weather? If so, then understanding what it means to be not winter hardy may be the solution to your gardening woes.

Not Winter Hardy - What Does It Mean?

Plants are classified as either winter hardy or not winter hardy depending on their ability to survive in cold winter conditions. Winter hardy plants can tolerate and even thrive in freezing temperatures whereas not winter hardy ones can’t. If you live in an area with severe winters and want to have a garden, then you need to ensure you choose plants that are winter hardy, or expect to replant every spring.

Not winter hardy plants can be a beautiful addition to a garden, but only if the gardener is willing to put in the work to keep them alive through the winter. This usually involves digging the plants up and storing them in a sheltered, warm location until spring arrives. Some gardeners choose to treat these plants as annuals and simply replant them in the spring, knowing that they won’t survive the winter.

What Happens to Not Winter Hardy Plants in the Winter?

When winter temperatures drop, not winter hardy plants simply can’t cope with the cold. The damage can occur in a variety of ways. The cold may damage the plant’s leaves, stems or roots, turning them brown and causing them to drop off. In severe cases, the cold can kill the plant outright or weaken it enough that it fails to thrive in the following growing season.

Question and Answer

Q: How can I tell if a plant is winter hardy?

A: The best way to tell if a plant is winter hardy is to check its hardiness zone. This is a zone rating system used by the USDA to rate plants for their ability to survive in different regions. Generally, if you live in a region with harsh winters, you want to choose plants that have a lower hardiness zone rating.

Q: Can I make a not winter hardy plant winter hardy?

A: Some not winter hardy plants can be made more winter hardy by treating them with anti-transpirants and wrapping them with burlap. However, this is not a guaranteed solution and is often not worth the effort.

Conclusion

If you want to have a thriving garden, it’s important to choose plants that are suitable for your local climate. Not winter hardy plants can be a beautiful addition to a garden, but they require extra care and attention to survive the winter. By understanding what it means to be not winter hardy, you can choose plants that will thrive in your garden and avoid the disappointment of losing beloved plants due to a harsh winter.

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