Hello all,
I have a couple of the Buddleia x ‘Blue Chip in large containers. I live in zone that can fluctuate between 3-5. I know the plants must go dormant, but what kind of environment should I put them in? I have a spot at the bottom of a bilco door that leads to the basement, it's underground, cold, but no light. I have a back porch that is covered, so there's more light. Do I cover the pot with insulation? The plant itself with cloth?
Thanks,
Rochelle
Overwintering Buddleia x ‘Blue Chip in pots
Good question, bb. I'm wondering the same thing.
I think I'm just going to cut mine back and stick them into the unheated garage (which is Zone 6a and connected to the house so not as cold as a stand alone garage). Watering them maybe once each month. I don't think it matters much if the dormant plants get light or not but I'm sure others can give you a definitive answer. It's pretty dark in our garage and my winterized potted plants usually make it thru til spring.
In zone 3-5 I think I would insulate your pots, by the way. You don't want them to freeze solid thru. You could wrap them up in something or bury them in mulch or chopped leaves. (but what a mess on your porch!)
BTW, I notice your address is Harbor Springs. When I was a girl I spent many lovely summer weeks up there on the bay. What a lovely place to live. I may drop in on you some day!!