Expert: Mike Mascio - 11/5/2006

Question
I have a few hybiscus trees planted in half barrels about 4' tall. I live in south jersey where it gets pretty cold in the winter. Will my trees survive the cold or is there something I can do to save them? I thought maybe wrap them up like a fig tree? Please advise.

Answer
Dave, until they are transplanted and established in garden soil, you will need to protect the trees. Simply wrap them in burlap and cover the soil base with straw. The straw will protect the root ball, and the burlap will protect the tree while still letting in air and some dappled light. Once all danger of frost has passed next spring, go ahead and remove the burlap.

Good luck, and please write again if I can ever be of assistance.

Regards,

Mike