Overwintering guide
How to overwinter red stem ginger lily
Winter watering
Water rarely, and only in dry spells — winter wet is a bigger risk than winter cold. Make sure containers drain freely.
The mistake that kills red stem ginger lily in winter
Leaving red stem ginger lily in a pot standing in a saucer of water. Waterlogged compost freezes solid around the roots and kills plants that would have survived the cold perfectly well.
More red stem ginger lily care
Overwintering red stem ginger lily — FAQ
Does red stem ginger lily need to come indoors for winter?
Red Stem Ginger Lily is hardy to roughly USDA zone 8 — winter lows around -12°C. That means it survives outside in mild areas, but wants shelter in a hard winter. Red Stem Ginger Lily can stay outside over winter in most areas, but appreciates some protection in a cold snap. Mulch generously over the root zone, move containers against a sheltered wall (pots freeze far harder than open ground), and have horticultural fleece ready for the worst nights. The roots are what you are protecting — top growth can be sacrificed and regrown.
When should I move red stem ginger lily for winter?
Mulch and move pots into shelter in late autumn, before the first hard frosts.
How often should I water red stem ginger lily in winter?
Water rarely, and only in dry spells — winter wet is a bigger risk than winter cold. Make sure containers drain freely.
What kills red stem ginger lily over winter?
Leaving red stem ginger lily in a pot standing in a saucer of water. Waterlogged compost freezes solid around the roots and kills plants that would have survived the cold perfectly well.