Firstly, dead leaves and buds should be removed from the plant. This prevents the plant from investing too much energy which it urgently needs for winter. Plants should generally not be fertilised in winter. Continue to liquid feed winter flowering annuals like pansies, violas, and polyanthus every two weeks. Prune potted roses to promote healthy plants and loads of flowers.
Covering the root area is important winter protection for all plants. Straw, bark mulch or autumn leaves help to make the plants winter-hardy. They protect the sensitive parts of the plant against cold air. Balcony plants should be protected with the same measures.
Plants in pots and tubs are very thirsty during frost-free periods, especially those which are under eaves. Evergreen plants constantly lose water in winter via the leaves. Especially on sunny days and in strong wind, more water is needed than is supplied by rain. Most plants react to the lack of water with wilted leaves. In winter, dry damage is frequently confused with freezing damage. How much water plants need in winter depends on the size of the container. When watered, you should ensure that the water runs out of the pot at the bottom. In the case of plants in large pots, ten litres may well be required.
