Autumn-proof dipladenia: how to prepare it for the cold season

With the arrival of autumn, the Dipladenia (also known as Mandevilla or Sundaville) wonderful climbing plant of the family Apocynaceaeis preparing to face radical change. For those with a green thumb, the idea of ​​keeping it alive during the cold months might seem like a challenge, but in reality, with a little attention, it will be possible to guarantee the plant a peaceful rest and lush flowering the following spring.

Given its South American origins, dipladenia can resist Mediterranean winters, as long as some essential rules are followed. First of all, timing. It’s fundamental move it to a protected environment before temperatures drop below 10°C.

Don’t wait for the bitter cold, but act in advance: when the nights start to get cooler, around mid-October, it’s time to look for shelter. The most common mistake we tend to make, perhaps out of affection, is to bring it indoors, but heated rooms are not suitable: the plant in fact needs a break, a vegetative hibernation that only a cool environment, between 12 and 14°C, you can guarantee them.

An unheated greenhouse, a well-lit veranda or a bright stairwell represent the ideal places to welcome it, where it can gather energy for future flowering without suffering stress. Remember that, in winter, the plant must not be exposed to temperatures above 16°Cunder penalty of delayed or less generous flowering. Light also plays a crucial role: avoiding too dark environments is essential to keep the plant healthy.

Another important aspect is the pruning. Before sheltering the Dipladenia, it would be useful reduce the most invasive branches, especially if they have reached cumbersome dimensions. But be careful not to overdo it: Too drastic pruning could cause more harm than good. Winter rest is a delicate time, in which the balance between cuts and protection is crucial for the future vigor of the plant.

In the end, reduce watering. The dipladenia, in the resting phase, does not need much water, therefore a slightly moist soil will be sufficient to guarantee it an optimal condition until the return of the beautiful season.

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