Overwintering guide
How to overwinter scrub palmetto
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 scrub palmetto in winter
Leaving scrub palmetto 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 scrub palmetto care
Overwintering scrub palmetto — FAQ
Does scrub palmetto need to come indoors for winter?
Scrub Palmetto 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. Scrub Palmetto 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 scrub palmetto for winter?
Mulch and move pots into shelter in late autumn, before the first hard frosts.
How often should I water scrub palmetto 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 scrub palmetto over winter?
Leaving scrub palmetto 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.