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Graeme Yule

graemecyulegraemecyule Posts: 1
in Plants
How hardy are tree heathers?
we loved the piece on bee friendly trees and especially the one about tree heather Erica  Arborea.
Is it just suited for the climate down south or could it survive winter in Aboyne Aberdeenshire? At least -8 sometimes more and would it need protection from heavy snowfalls.

Regards G

Posts

  • AnniDAnniD Posts: 12,585
    @Fairygirl is further North than me, she might be able to help  :)
  • ObelixxObelixx Posts: 30,090
    edited June 2020
    Some tree heathers can cope with those cold temperatures but don't like winter wet so if you can provide good drainage it's worth a go.   Ths one is probably worth tryng - https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/91340/Erica-lusitanica-f-aureifolia-George-Hunt/Details 

    Snow acts as  insulation so can be a protection from heavy frosts as long as the weight doesn't bend or break branches.   If you regularly have heavy snows, maybe consider ordinary heathers whose lower, hummocky form won't be affected by the weight but whose flowers will be just as good for pollinators.  https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?PID=1003


    Vendée - 20kms from Atlantic coast.
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