How can I preserve lemon verbena through winter? - Ask Extension
I grew a lovely Lemon Verbena in a pot this summer and I believe it is not tolerant to the winter here. What would be the best way to preserve this lo...
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How can I preserve lemon verbena through winter? #160739
Asked November 18, 2013, 12:43 PM EST
I grew a lovely Lemon Verbena in a pot this summer and I believe it is not tolerant to the winter here. What would be the best way to preserve this lovely plant?
Thank you!
Clackamas County Oregon
Expert Response
You believe correctly. Lemon verbena is rated for zones 8 (or 9) to 11 so will survive if you protect it
when temperatures are predicted to dip below 32F. Then,
too, understand that, because it’s a deciduous shrub, you should remain calm
when the leaves drop!
I wouldn’t bring it indoors for the winter because it is deciduous and, thus, requires a cool rest period with moderate conditions.
You should be able to protect the lemon verbena in one of several ways. After the leaves drop normally but before a heavy freeze, drag the pot into the garage, then leave it there until spring while ensuring the soil doesn’t dry out completely.
Or leave it outdoors in a sunny spot through the winter – well, a place where it’s sunny on the occasions when we do have sun. Take it into the garage only when a freeze threatens and keep it there for as long as outdoor temperatures are too low, then move it outdoors again. As with the previous method, ensure that the rootball doesn’t dry completely.
I wouldn’t bring it indoors for the winter because it is deciduous and, thus, requires a cool rest period with moderate conditions.
You should be able to protect the lemon verbena in one of several ways. After the leaves drop normally but before a heavy freeze, drag the pot into the garage, then leave it there until spring while ensuring the soil doesn’t dry out completely.
Or leave it outdoors in a sunny spot through the winter – well, a place where it’s sunny on the occasions when we do have sun. Take it into the garage only when a freeze threatens and keep it there for as long as outdoor temperatures are too low, then move it outdoors again. As with the previous method, ensure that the rootball doesn’t dry completely.
