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Randall, Roots are much less
tolerant of temperature extremes than are the shoots. In an orchard
situation tree roots would be insulated by soil, but in a pot there is limited
insulation. The larger the pot, the more cold they might withstand. A
good rule of thumb is to protect roots from sudden changes in temperature, and
in general plants in pots need to be kept in ‘winter’ temperatures
that are 1-2 hardiness zones warmer than they would be outdoors. If your apples
would be ordinarily hardy to zone 6, keep potted apples in the equivalent of a
zone 7 to 8. I would recommend a spot in an unheated garage, or if your
soil is not frozen, dig holes in the ground in a protected area near the house
and bury your pots; top the surface area with 1-2” of mulch (but not
immediately up against the trunks) for additional insulation. Michele Stanton From: Randall Burd
[mailto:burdrs@comcast.net] I live in zone 6. I have several potted apple trees. Do I
need to protect the pots from freezing in the winter? I don't have much room in
my garage right now but would gladly leave my car outside to protect the trees
if needed. Any advice? |
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