What to do in case of frost

When does the gentian tree have to go into winter quarters?

Nurseries recommend keeping the tree until the onset of the Winter to keep with freezing temperatures outdoors. Better not to rely on that.

Even in autumn it can get very cold overnight.

It is ideal if you bring the gentian bush into the house as soon as the temperatures outside drop to seven degrees.

This is how you will find the ideal place to spend the winter

Of course, even at the wintering location, there must not be any short-term temperature drops close to freezing point.

If you have the gentian tree in a shed or Garden shed(€ 39.99 at Amazon *) you should install a frost monitor or at least hang up a thermometer to keep an eye on the temperatures.

The place to Overwinter does not necessarily have to be light. You can also bring the gentian tree over the winter in a frost-free cellar. However, the evergreen plant sheds all leaves in the dark.

Prepare the gentian bush for the move

• Cut excess branches
• Check for pests
• Treat if necessary
• Pour only moderately
• No more fertilizing

Before the gentian tree moves to winter quarters, you can cut a few protruding branches. Carry out the cuts sparingly, however, as they are at the expense of the flower.

Examine the gentian bush for aphids, Spider mites and whiteflies. Treat an infestation immediately. Otherwise the pests multiply very strongly in winter quarters and damage the plant.

When can the potato tree go outside again?

When the days get lighter and warmer again, slowly get used to the fresh air again.

On frost-free days, you can put it in a sheltered place on the terrace.

Since ground frost often occurs at night in spring, you should bring the shrub back into the house in good time in the afternoon.

Tips & Tricks

Place the gentian bush in the bucket on a rollable base. Then you can always roll it to where the sun is shining. A mobile bucket is also much easier to bring into winter quarters.