Protecting Crinodendron over winter
By Maxgarden
United Kingdom 
I bought a Crinodendron hookeranium in spring but have just learned they tend to be on the tender side. It's about three feet tall and tucked nicely against a seven foot fence. Will it need further protection against the rigours of winter? I live in the West Midlands.
3 Nov, 2008
Answers
Tend to agree with Sarraceniac especially with a smallish specimen like your own until it gets past the first couple of winters outside. On the lee side of a fence is good. Once past those all-important first winters an older plant should have no problems. Fleece is exellent but do ensure there is plenty of air space and the base is well anchored to the ground to prevent 'draughts'.
Don't do a 'Chelsea' on your plant, I used fleece on both my plants initially and today they are around 12ft high and 8ft wide after just 7 years so be sure they have room to grow.
4 Nov, 2008
The only thing I would add to the excellent advice above - if you have any dry woody waste or straw, I would give the roots a mulch now as well
4 Nov, 2008
Good thinking Andrew. I never had any imagination.
John.
4 Nov, 2008
Previous question
« do I tie the cordeline leaves together to protect from frost
Hi Maxgarden. It is officially hardy to about -5C so I suppose it is borderline unless your micro-climate is artificially warm. I would have the fleece standing by if a hard frost is forecast for your area.
John.
4 Nov, 2008