Pseudopanax Pseudopanax is a plant native to New Zealand, where winters are relatively mild. Depending on species (such as Pseudopanax crassifolius or Pseudopanax ferox), this plant can tolerate a few degrees below zero, but generally prefers mild winter temperatures (above -5 °C). In France, it is on the oceanic coast, mild and humid, that these relatives of Fatsias will find the conditions they like. Beyond that, protective measures are necessary. Here are our tips to protect your Pseudopanax in winter.
Find all our cultivation tips in our plant sheet Pseudopanax: planting, cultivation and care.
Choose the right location
- In open ground : plant it sheltered from cold winds, ideally against a south- or west-facing wall, which will help retain heat from the sun.
- In a pot : if your Pseudopanax is in a pot, you will have more flexibility to move it. Place it in a sheltered spot in winter, such as an unheated conservatory or a cold greenhouse, near a bright window.
Protect roots and trunk
Roots and base of the plant are particularly sensitive to cold. Here are some effective methods to protect them :
- Mulching : in autumn, apply a good thick layer of mulch around the base of the plant (dead leaves, straw or bark). This will help retain heat in the soil and limit damage in case of frost.
- Winter fleece : in case of severe frosts forecast, wrap the plant with a winter fleece (available in most garden centres). It is lightweight, allows air and light through, while protecting from freezing temperatures. Make sure to secure the fleece so it does not blow away.
Reduce watering in winter
Pseudopanax enters a dormant period during winter, so it is important to significantly reduce watering. Excess water combined with low temperatures can lead to root rot. Water very lightly, just enough to prevent the soil from becoming completely dry, especially if the plant is in a pot. In open ground, watering in winter is often unnecessary.
Monitor temperatures
If you live in an area where temperatures regularly fall below -5 °C, it is preferable to bring your Pseudopanax indoors or into a cold greenhouse for winter. More sensitive species (Pseudopanax lessonii and Pseudopanax laetus) do not tolerate prolonged frost. Indoors, place it in a bright, cool but unheated room (ideally around 5 to 10 °C), such as a conservatory or a garage with large windows.
Ventilation and light
Even during winter, Pseudopanax needs light. If you bring it indoors, place it near a window where it can benefit from natural light. Avoid dark corners.
Also, if you use a winter fleece, remember to air it occasionally to prevent moisture build-up that could encourage disease.
Protecting a Pseudopanax in a pot for winter
A Pseudopanax in a pot should be brought indoors as soon as temperatures fall below 5 °C. Place it in a sheltered spot such as a conservatory, an unheated greenhouse, a winter garden or any other frost-free space, provided it is sufficiently bright.
During winter, reduce watering : water only when the substrate becomes dry at surface, to prevent roots from rotting. Obviously, it is unnecessary to fertilise during this period of rest. When all risk of frost has passed, in spring, take it outside gradually by acclimatising it to outdoors, placing it in shade first before slowly reintroducing it to full sun.
Finally, never forget that plants in pots are more sensitive to cold, because their roots are less protected than those in open ground. To help insulate the pot, you can :
- Raise the pot on blocks or a saucer to avoid direct contact with cold soil.
- Wrap the pot with insulating material (bubble wrap or a thick fabric) to limit temperature fluctuations.
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