
Winter Protection of Bulbs in Containers
I planted some bulbs in pots on my patio this fall. I put a 2" layer of woodchips on top of the soil in the pots. Will this offer enough winter protection? If not, can you please suggest how we should go about doing this?
Outdoor pots and planters, even when mulched, do not provide enough insulation for bulbs in most cold winter climates. The soil temperature in small containers drops below freezing and kills the bulbs. Any added insulation such as bales of straw or discarded Christmas trees will increase your chance of success. If possible move the planters into an unheated garage for the winter. Water the soil whenever it is thawed and dry. Smaller inexpensive pots can be buried in vacant garden space. Lift the pots and place them in larger planters, decorative pots or other desired locations next spring. Your efforts will be rewarded with beautiful spring blooms.
Related
Upcoming Live Events
& Webinars
May 31, 2025
Garden Talk with Melinda
Lake Mills, WI
Register here
June 1, 2025
Growing, Harvesting & Preserving Favorite Italian Herbs Demos
Festa Italiana-Cucina Showcase
Milwaukee, WI
June 4, 2025
FREE WEBINAR:
Attracting Hummingbirds
Register here
June 8, 2025
Selecting the Right Hydrangea
for Your Landscape
Ebert's Greenhouse Village
Ixonia, WI
June 14, 2025
Houseplants 101
Ebert's Greenhouse Village
Ixonia, WI
June 20, 2025 (event 6/20-6/22)
Pollinator Celebration
Vino in the Valley
Maiden Rock, WI
Register here
WATCH ON-DEMAND WEBINARS
Learn More