Overwintering guide
How to overwinter velvet bean
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 velvet bean in winter
Bringing velvet bean 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 velvet bean care
Overwintering velvet bean — FAQ
Does velvet bean need to come indoors for winter?
Velvet bean is hardy to roughly USDA zone 9 — winter lows around -7°C. That means it takes cool conditions but not a real freeze. Velvet bean 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 velvet bean for winter?
Move under cover before the first hard frost; back outside after the last spring frost.
How often should I water velvet bean in winter?
Water only occasionally — enough that the rootball never dries out completely, no more. No feeding until spring growth begins.
What kills velvet bean over winter?
Bringing velvet bean 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.