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‘Planting’ containers is one way to winter container plants

As our weather grows colder and the ground eventually freezes, our perennial container plants can become stressed. But with care and protection, the plants will not only survive the winter but thrive for us to enjoy next summer.

Some containers can withstand the elements, such as large concrete or wooden containers, but ceramic or glazed pottery may crack due to temperature fluctuations.

Because the roots of these perennials are exposed from all sides of the containers and they are above ground, they become more vulnerable than inground plants. Therefore, the following protective suggestions will help these plants survive our harsh winter months.

The easiest is storing your container plant indoors, perhaps in an unheated garage or basement that provides protection from the elements and will the plant to enter dormancy. The temperature should be between 20 and 45 degrees for best results.

Another choice may be to “plant” the entire container inground for root protection, as ground soil will provide insulation. Covering it with additional soil and / or mulch or straw will provide extra protection and warmth.

Grouping the plants together in a protected area, perhaps next to your home, gives additional protection and warmth from the wind, especially if placed on the northern or eastern side of a building. Placing the container on a raised platform will be added protection.

Another suggestion is wrapping the container and plant with bubble wrap a and adding straw, mulch or any type of insulating material.

Water each container well to ensure the roots will have adequate moisture, and check them periodically using a moisture gauge for accuracy. The soil should be moist but not wet, and deciduous plants need neither water nor food during dormancy. Using mulch for an extra layer of protection around containers and over their top edges is beneficial.

Conifers and evergreens may require periodic watering especially on warmer days. Any saucers used should be removed to prevent plants standing in water which will probably freeze in the coming months. When spring comes, remove any protection gradually to prevent shock.

Because we love and appreciate our deck and patio plants during the summer, we want them to survive. We live in a Zone 5 area and should choose our plants that grow best for our zone.

The University of Illinois suggests we choose our year-round outside plants that are one or two zones lower than our zone to ensure overwintering success. By doing that, our outdoor container plants will have a greater chance of survival during our cold winter months.

For some more great tips, watch this video from the University of Illinois at http://go.osu.edu/winterize.

Shipka is an Ohio State University Extension Master Gardener Volunteer in Mahoning County.

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