Content
- Jacob's Ladder - hardy and hardy wild shrub
- Plant the Jacob's ladder at a good location
- Prepare for the winter by pruning
- Jacob's ladder in the tub overwinter
- Tips
The Jacob's ladder should be cut back before winter
Jacob's Ladder - hardy and hardy wild shrub
The Jacob's Ladder (Polemonium), which is also referred to as a block herb or sky ladder and gloriously white, blue or purple, embellishes perennial beds and naturally-designed gardens. The up to 90 centimeters high perennial thrives on moist meadows in Europe, Asia and North America. The plant is undemanding, easy to care for and very hardy.
Plant the Jacob's ladder at a good location
However, in order for your Jacob's Ladders to survive the winter, they should be planted in a well-established location. To dry places do not like the plants, there they will wither and eventually go down. It is best to place the perennials in a sunny to partially shaded spot in nutrient rich and moist soil. However, avoid waterlogging by providing the substrate with good drainage. This is best done by loosening too heavy soil when planted with coarse gravel. In addition, the soil should be as nutrient-rich as possible.
Prepare for the winter by pruning
Prepare the Jacob's Ladder for the winter by cutting back the plant vigorously before the winter break. The pruning can be done just under a hand's breadth above the earth. Further protective measures for the hardy plant are not necessary. Just in case you want to propagate the plant by self-sowing, refrain from late autumn pruning. Instead, pick it up on a frost-free day in late winter. The advantage of the pruning consists in the prophylaxis against fungal diseases and against wilt, finally, the dried-up plant parts provide the pathogens a broad attack surface.
Jacob's ladder in the tub overwinter
In contrast to planted Jacob's ladders, perennials kept in pots should be provided with winter protection since the risk of root damage caused by frost is much higher. To do this, place the pot on a polystyrene or wood base and wrap it with an insulating fleece, if necessary. The cut down plant, however, can be covered with spruce or pine twigs.
Tips
Even in winter, the Jacob's ladder must not dry out. Pour the plant from time to time, especially after freezing, especially when in the pot.