Shrubby St John’s Wort Winter Care Tips

Shrubby St. John’s wort is an amazing plant that shows us how to be strong and adaptable, even in harsh winters. It looks great too, with its green leaves turning golden yellow in the fall. And it provides a safe haven for animals during the cold months when everything else is bare.

Winter Care for Shrubby St. John’s Wort

Winter Care for Shrubby St. John’s Wort

Mulching

1. Select Appropriate Mulch: Choose organic mulch like straw, pine needles, wood chips, or shredded leaves.

2. Apply Mulch: Spread a 2-4 inch layer around the base of the plant. Ensure the mulch doesn’t touch the stems to prevent rot.

3. Reapply if Needed: If mulch compacts over time, add a fresh layer to maintain insulation.

Watering

1. Water Before Freezing: Thoroughly water the plant before the first hard freeze to ensure it has enough moisture.

2. Limit Watering: After the ground freezes, reduce watering frequency. Check soil moisture during mild spells, ensuring it remains slightly moist.

Pruning

1. Prune in Late Winter or Early Spring: Prune before new growth starts.

   Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches.

2. Shape the Plant: Trim to maintain the desired shape and size. Cut just above a leaf node or bud to encourage healthy growth.

3. Avoid Heavy Pruning in Fall: Pruning in fall can stimulate new growth that may be damaged by cold temperatures.

Protecting from Extreme Cold

1. Cover the Plant: Use burlap, frost cloth, or an old blanket to cover the plant during extremely cold nights. Support the covering with stakes to avoid contact with the leaves.

2. Provide Wind Protection: Erect a windbreak using a fence or hedge to shield the plant from harsh winter winds.

3. Move Container Plants Indoors: If the plant is in a container, move it to a sheltered location, such as a garage or enclosed porch, to protect it from freezing temperatures.

These steps will help ensure your shrubby St. John’s wort remains healthy and robust throughout the winter season, ready to flourish come spring.

To Ensure the Health and Longevity of Your Shrubby St. John’s Wort

Follow these key points:

• Mulch around the base of the plant with organic materials like straw or wood chips to insulate and retain moisture.
• Water thoroughly before the first hard freeze and reduce watering frequency once the ground freezes.
• Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead branches and shape the plant for healthy growth.
• Protect from extreme cold by covering the plant, providing wind protection, and moving container plants indoors if necessary.

Proper winter maintenance will help your shrubby St. John’s wort remain strong and adaptable, even in harsh winters, and ensure it continues to thrive come spring.