How do osmanthus trees overwinter in the north?

Osmanthus trees have a certain degree of cold resistance and can spend the winter in the open field in areas south of the Yellow River basin without suffering any frost damage. However, if it is in the cold northern regions, it is usually recommended to plant the osmanthus tree as a potted plant and move it indoors in winter to avoid frostbite. So how do osmanthus trees survive the winter in the north? Let’s learn more about it below.

1. Choose cold-resistant varieties

When planting osmanthus in the north, choosing the right variety is crucial. Osmanthus fragrans, such as late silver osmanthus, golden osmanthus and red osmanthus, are all good choices. In addition, you can try to graft osmanthus with tassel trees to improve its cold resistance.

2. Move indoors

In northern regions, osmanthus potted plants should be moved indoors in late October or early November. It is best to place it in a place with sufficient light, the indoor temperature should be maintained at 3-5℃, and the relative humidity should be maintained between 60%-80%.

3. Bag to keep warm

You can use a plastic bag or plastic film of appropriate size, fix it with bamboo boards or wooden strips, and put it on top of the plant, but be careful not to let the branches and leaves of the plant touch the plastic film .

4. Water and fertilizer management

The osmanthus tree does not need frequent watering in winter, but the soil cannot be allowed to dry out. Usually watering once a week is sufficient. In addition, it is best to apply phosphorus and potassium fertilizers once before winter to promote the growth of the roots of osmanthus and help it survive the winter better. Do not apply fertilizer after winter dormancy.

5. Keep moisturized

In the north, indoor heating is generally turned on and the air is relatively dry. Therefore, be sure to spray water mist on the osmanthus tree in the morning and evening to increase the air humidity. This can effectively prevent leaf curling, dry tips and yellowing.

6. Moderate pruning

During the dormant period of the osmanthus tree, moderate pruning should be carried out to cut off crossed branches, overlapping branches, diseased and insect-infested branches, etc., so as to reduce energy consumption and help the osmanthus safely overwinter.

7. Time to leave the room

The time to move plants out of the house in spring should be later, usually after Qingming Festival. In the early stages, it is best to move the osmanthus tree outdoors during the day and move it back indoors at night to allow the tree to gradually adapt to the external environment.



In general, the cold northern regions are more suitable for wintering maintenance methods for potted osmanthus trees. Pay attention to water control, fertilizer control, humidification, pruning and other aspects to ensure that the osmanthus trees safely overwinter and are rejuvenated in the spring of the following year.