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Hebe's (Addende)
I recently bought a Hebe, thinking it was quite hardy. At first it was doing pretty well, but we had a cold spell of minus temperatures, and it really struggled after. The branches are brown, and I didnt water it , as it was raining every week or so.
My question is: 1. Will it need protection in frost? And 2. If it doesnt get water twice a week, will it die?
I can't be fostering high maintenance plants!
PLease help! Any advice greatly appreciated.
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They like good drainage Uzrya and can't stand waterlogged soil, so definitely don't water in the Winter. As for frost, some varieties are hardier than others - I've currently got one potted that is wilting at the tips since the frosts, it's also lost quite a few of the lower leaves. Next year I'm planning on putting it in the garage for the winter or mulching thicker. I've just googled mine & yours to find it's Hardiness: Tender in frost (H3), so will face it's harshest struggle it's first winter.
Last edited: 15 February 2017 17:19:15
Last edited: 15 February 2017 17:20:22
There are many different species of Hebe.
Some are very hardy and some are not.
I suspect frost damage is the problem.
As said they require sun and good drainage.
The amount of water they need, depends on whether they are in a pot and on how hot it is.
When you don't even know who's in the team
S.Yorkshire/Derbyshire border
As punkdoc says, some are hardier than others, and variegated ones tend to bea bit more precious than the grey/blue foliaged ones. The bigger leaved types can also be a bit less hardy, so it depends where you are and what your conditions are like, as well as the variety.
Keeping them in drier conditions in winter can help. They're more likely to die if they get waterlogged and cold as opposed to dry and cold. Sharp drainage is important, whether in the ground or in pots. I'm in Scotland and have lost some in severe winters.
Last edited: 15 February 2017 17:44:43
I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
Thank you all for your suggestions and advice.
I will try to change the soil, just in case. Some leaves seem to be making a comeback. And I'll watch it closely come the winter. It might be too late though. If nothing though, I've learned plants surprise you.
Really appreciate the feedback. No clue, really about things green, learning from scratch..