How does frost drought occur?
Leaves and needles of evergreen plants evaporate moisture even in the cold season. Especially when they are exposed to the sun, they consume a lot of water. Due to the frozen earth, however, it is not possible for them to pick it up again from the ground.
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Recognize freeze drought
The symptoms of winter drought are similar to those of water shortages in the summer months:
- First, brown spots appear on the foliage.
- The leaves hang limp.
- They wither and dry up.
- In conifers, the shoot tips and needles turn yellowish-brown.
- The shoots can partially die off.
The full extent of the frost drought often only becomes apparent in the spring months. Sometimes the plants are so badly damaged that they no longer sprout, turn completely brown, dry up and have to be disposed of.
Preventing the winter drought
The most important measure is sufficient watering of the plants throughout the year. You should also pay some attention to the evergreen plants in the winter months:
- Water them moderately but regularly on frost-free days.
- Waterlogging must be avoided at all costs.
- However, the ground should not be frozen, since then water absorption is not possible.
- In the case of sensitive plants, cover the root disc as well mulch,(€27.00 at Amazon*) brushwood, jute, reed mats or light plant fleece.
It is also important that you plant trees for the last time at the beginning of July at the latest fertilize. This gives the young shoots enough time to mature and withstand the extreme conditions of winter. The next nutrient application takes place in March or April.
assistance in the event of damage
If, despite all precautionary measures, a plant has dry shoots in spring, cut them back into healthy wood. Fertilization tailored to the plant promotes new growth, so that gaps caused by the drought can no longer be seen after a few weeks.
Unfortunately, frost damage to conifers is not so easy to compensate. But they will also sprout again after pruning, provided they are well supplied with water and fertilizer.
Tip
Container plants are very susceptible to winter drought. Therefore, place them in a wind-protected, shady location in front of the house wall. Also cover the plants with a light fleece and keep the root ball evenly moist.
