| I have a loropetalum planted in a container on my deck. Can I leave it outside all winter? Or will the cold weather in Atlanta harm it if it's not planted in the ground? |
| Plants in containers need winter protection because their roots are more exposed to the elements. You have a couple of choices: Sink the plants pot and all into the soil. Make sure the pots are well watered and then mulch six to twelve inches deep with straw, leaves, hay, or shredded bark. The roots will be protected by the moderating effects of surrounding soil. Check the pots monthly throughout the winter and water if needed to prevent desiccation. If sinking the pots in soil is not possible, cluster containers together in a protected site under the house eaves on the north or east side. Place larger pots to the outside and smaller pots to the inside of the cluster. Water pots well, then mulch heavily with straw, leaves, hay or shredded bark. Provide a thick layer of mulch or bales of hay around the outer edge of the cluster. Also, mulch over the top of the pots to lessen the impact of root-killing temperature fluctuations. Check every two weeks and water as necessary. Remember next spring to remove all mulching and packing when plants begin to show signs of growth. Remove mulch on a gradual basis as weather warms in late winter to early spring. Another overwintering option is to move containerized plants into an unheated garage or shed. Hope this information is helpful! |
