Can potted hydrangeas be brought indoors during winter?
Written by
Liu Xiaohui
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Over the winter, caring for potted hydrangeas is different from caring for garden plants. Indoor heating can interrupt their natural dormancy cycle, which can be detrimental. Instead, keep your containers in cool or unheated areas, in the temperature range of 35 to 45°F. Storing properly will also protect next season's blooms while preventing damage to the roots.
Ideal Storage Locations
- Unheated garages maintain perfect 35 45°F temperature range
- North facing walls provide wind protection without heat buildup
- Basements work only with ventilation preventing humidity issues
Root Protection Methods
- Bubble wrap insulation: Use ⅜ inch material around containers
- Elevation: Place pots on wooden blocks preventing ground freeze transfer
- Soil mulch: Add 4 inch bark layer protecting surface roots
Moisture Management
- Monthly checks: Test soil dryness at 2 inch depth
- Water amount: Provide 2 cups per gallon of pot size
- Temperature rule: Water only when above 40°F
The difference between potted hydrangeas thriving and struggling relates to temperature control. Stabilizing at 35-45°F will keep them dormant and prevent the roots from freezing. I monitor temperatures digitally, avoiding spots too close to heat sources or windows. Fluctuating temperatures cause far more damage than steady cold.
Root protection is layered. Wrapping containers with bubble wrap provides R 2 insulation per layer. Raising pots above ground prevents cold from penetrating the ground. My clients put straw between the container and wrap it in frigid zones. These methods will still protect roots at 10°F.
Water dormant plants using specified methods. Monitor monthly for dry mouth (dm); insert finger 2 inches deep to check moisture. Water only when the soil is dry, using room-temperature water. I water these in the middle of the day to let excess water drain out and allow the plant to dry before the nighttime drop in temperatures.
Despite the convenience, do not store indoors in residential areas. Heated rooms cause premature growing periods, which can weaken the plants. I lost three hydrangeas before I made this simple mistake. Plants stored in an unheated environment will generally suffer less and receive a better proportion of flowering in the spring.
Read the full article: Essential Hydrangea Winter Care Guide
