Southern Delaware plants can recover from winter damage

Many plants in southern Delaware have been affected by winter weather. Nandinas, hydrangea, camellias and gardenias are currently showing signs of winter damage. Although many of these plants are hardy in Delaware they may have reduced flowering, dead stems, leaf discoloration or slowed growth. Before considering taking the shovel to these popular garden plants, there are a few ways to check and see if the plants are still viable.

Nandina varieties such as domestica and Gulf Stream have been affected. Plants have loss of foliage on most stems especially at the top of the plant. Cut these stems back to an area where there are leaves. If there are no leaves, or if it is brittle and no green is visible, remove the branch from the plant.

Hydrangeas affected are the types most commonly known as mopheads or lace caps, and varieties that are commonly seeing damage are the Endless Summer, Nikko Blue and Amethyst. These varieties are typically known for blue flowers over summer. Stems that are showing no leaves and are brittle will no longer produce flowers, so cut these stems off at ground level. These plants will often produce new leaves at the base of the plant. Hydrangeas are quick growers, so they should recover, although there may be reduced flowering this season.

Camellias damaged by the winter are still holding their leaves, but the leaves appear grey, brown or black. Nearly all varieties are affected and many have reduced or no flowers this spring. Most plants will recover and begin growing by mid-May.

All gardenias are showing winter injury. Plants have brown or black leaves. If branches are black use pruners to cut and check for green. If none is found, remove the branch. Many plants are showing die-back of all branches. Shoots may form at the base of the plant and continue to grow. Gardenias are slow growers, so you may want to consider replanting if this occurs.

Southern magnolias, holly, and some privet are other plants that are showing winter injury or damage. Most of these plants will eventually outgrow winter injury, so hold off on the shovel and do some careful pruning. When the warmer days arrive, the garden and the gardener will both be looking much better.

Denise Bradshaw is an account manager with Sposato Landscape in Milton.