Tolerates frost to a certain extent
Monk's pepper, botanically Vitex agnus-castus, is considered only moderately hardy. But in mild regions or With winter protection measures, the shrub can be cultivated outside all year round. As much as possible, its root base should be covered with leaves in autumn. A protected one is also advantageous Locationwhere the wind can barely reach it.
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- Monk's pepper - the shrub needs this kind of plant care
Frostbite is the order of the day
The bare branches of monk's pepper can do little to withstand high temperatures below zero. Wrapping this sprawling shrub in fleece is, however, an impossibility. In spring it must be checked what survived above the surface of the earth. Most of the time, some branches, and occasionally almost everything, will be frozen to death.
Don't give up on monk's pepper. It shows itself to be strong enough to survive and mostly drives out again, even if that may take some time.
Cut Return all frozen shoots in the spring. Wait until the new shoots, then you can easily see where the scissors should be applied. Or cut back completely to 20 cm, as some nurseries recommend.Support with good care
In addition, help the monk's pepper with good ones care on the jumps. For example, he loves compost. Its nutrients support it in the formation of new shoots. Incidentally, the flowers cannot be affected by frost, as they only appear on annual shoots.
Aversion to winter wetness
What monk's pepper does not tolerate well in winter is moisture. Of course, you don't transplant an old shrub. But you should get a new copy multiply, then plants At least place this near a house wall so that it has a protective roof overhang.
Chasteberry in the bucket
All Chasteberry varieties can be grown in a large container. Then you shouldn't rely on protective measures in autumn. The shrub has to hibernate in the house. The fact that it loses its leaves before the cold snap makes wintering easier for us:
- Winter in the house frost-free
- Temperatures up to 10 ° C are acceptable
- Room can be dark
- water sparingly