Overwintering guide
How to overwinter cape honeysuckle
Winter watering
Water only occasionally — enough that the rootball never dries out completely, no more. No feeding until spring growth begins.
The mistake that kills cape honeysuckle in winter
Bringing cape honeysuckle into a warm living room. Too much winter warmth forces weak, pale growth that collapses when it goes back outside — cool and bright beats warm and dim.
More cape honeysuckle care
Overwintering cape honeysuckle — FAQ
Does cape honeysuckle need to come indoors for winter?
Cape honeysuckle is hardy to roughly USDA zone 9 — winter lows around -7°C. That means it takes cool conditions but not a real freeze. Cape honeysuckle will take cool conditions but not a hard freeze, so the aim is a frost-free winter rather than a warm one. An unheated greenhouse, porch, conservatory or bright garage all work well. Keep it cool, bright and on the dry side, and it will hold steady until growth restarts in spring.
When should I move cape honeysuckle for winter?
Move under cover before the first hard frost; back outside after the last spring frost.
How often should I water cape honeysuckle in winter?
Water only occasionally — enough that the rootball never dries out completely, no more. No feeding until spring growth begins.
What kills cape honeysuckle over winter?
Bringing cape honeysuckle into a warm living room. Too much winter warmth forces weak, pale growth that collapses when it goes back outside — cool and bright beats warm and dim.