Lantana, known for its vibrant, multi-colored blooms, adds summer color to gardens. As temperatures drop, gardeners often wonder how to ensure these plants survive colder months. Winter care for lantana depends on your geographical location and whether the plant is in the ground or a container.
Lantana’s Winter Behavior
Lantana plants respond to cold temperatures by entering a state of dormancy. In USDA hardiness zones 7 to 11, lantana is considered a perennial, meaning it can return year after year. Its behavior within these zones varies considerably depending on the specific temperature lows experienced.
In the warmer parts of its perennial range, such as USDA zones 9 to 11, lantana may remain semi-evergreen or experience only partial dormancy, often retaining some foliage if mild temperatures persist. Conversely, in colder zones like 7 and 8, the plant’s top growth will likely die back completely to the ground when temperatures consistently fall below 55°F (12°C). While the visible foliage may appear dead, the roots often remain alive beneath the soil, preparing for regrowth in spring. If temperatures consistently drop below 28°F (-2°C) or stay cold for extended periods, the plant may not survive outdoors. In regions with severe frosts, lantana is usually grown as an annual, completing its life cycle within one growing season.
Preparing Outdoor Lantana for Winter
For lantana plants in the garden where they are perennial, specific preparations can enhance their winter survival. After the first hard frost causes foliage to brown or drop, prune the plant. This late-season pruning removes dead or damaged growth, reducing disease risk and directing energy toward root health during dormancy.
Cut the plant back to about 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) from the ground. Some gardeners prefer to wait until early spring for the main pruning, as cutting too early in fall can promote new growth vulnerable to cold snaps. To insulate roots from freezing temperatures, apply a thick layer of mulch (2 to 3 inches / 5 to 7.5 cm), such as straw, pine bark, or pine needles, around the plant’s base. This layer helps stabilize soil temperature and moisture, providing protection.
As dormancy approaches, reduce watering for outdoor lantana. While established plants are drought-tolerant, ensuring the soil isn’t completely dry before a freeze can offer some insulation, as moist soil holds more heat than dry soil. Avoid overwatering during dormant periods, which can lead to root issues.
Overwintering Potted Lantana Indoors
Gardeners in colder regions often choose to bring potted lantana indoors to preserve their plants through winter. The ideal time to move these plants inside is in early to mid-fall, just before the first expected frost, when nighttime temperatures consistently drop below 55°F (12°C). Before bringing the plant indoors, inspect it thoroughly for any signs of pests like aphids or spider mites, and treat as necessary to prevent infestations in your home. A light pruning to reduce plant size can also make indoor placement more manageable.
Once indoors, place potted lantana in a cool area with bright, indirect light. Temperatures between 50-65°F (10-18°C) are recommended for successful dormancy. Direct, strong light is not necessary during dormancy, as minimal light encourages the plant to rest.
During winter dormancy, significantly reduce watering. Allow the top 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5 cm) of soil to dry completely between waterings to prevent root rot. Overwatering is a common issue for dormant plants indoors. Do not fertilize lantana during its indoor dormancy. Maintaining 40-60% humidity can be beneficial, achievable with a humidity tray or humidifier.
Spring Revival and Post-Winter Care
As winter recedes and spring approaches, lantana plants begin their transition back to active growth. For outdoor lantana, wait until the danger of frost has passed and evening temperatures are consistently above 38-40°F (3-4°C) before performing any major pruning. This is the ideal time to cut back dead growth, typically to about 6 to 12 inches (15 to 30 cm) from the ground. This pruning encourages new, vigorous growth and abundant blooms, as lantana flowers on new wood. Remove any mulch applied in fall once temperatures warm to allow new shoots to emerge.
For potted lantana overwintered indoors, gradually reintroduce them to outdoor conditions once temperatures consistently remain above 55°F (12°C). Begin by placing them in a sheltered, shaded location for a few days, slowly increasing their sunlight exposure over a week or two to prevent leaf scorch. As the plant begins to show new growth, increase watering to a regular schedule and consider repotting if it has outgrown its container.
Regardless of how your lantana overwintered, begin fertilizing in early spring as new growth appears. Use a balanced, all-purpose fertilizer, such as a 10-10-10 or 20-20-20 NPK ratio. For in-ground plants, a single application in early spring is often sufficient, as over-fertilizing can lead to excessive foliage at the expense of flowers. Container-grown lantana may benefit from more frequent, lighter feedings, perhaps monthly with a slow-release or water-soluble fertilizer, due to nutrient depletion in pots.