Saving frozen potted plants

9 years ago

If there is a method, how would you save a potted plant that has been outside during freezing temps? I ordered a dormant plant, wedding gown hydrangea & was unaware the mailman left the plant underneath my porch chairs. Didn't realize it was there, & spent the night outside, unfortunately! I know the odds are, it's a goner, but I've had a few experiences where in the spring, the plants will sprout buds, & surprise me! Ive read fast thawing dehydrates & breaks down the plants cells & that's was causes the plant to die, beside root damage. I'm wondering if you thaw the plant carefully, would there be better odds? I submerged half the pot in cold water and it's sitting on my counter. Crossing fingers it works! If not I'll have to get another in the spring, they really are beautiful! I couldn't wait to have it.

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Comments (2)

ken_adrian Adrian MI cold Z5
9 years ago
one night???? .. in a sealed cardboard box????

can we see a pic???

it might not have froze as much as you might think ...

regardless ... had you gotten it a week ago... and planted it.. it would have gotten cold also ...

i would contact the seller.. and explain how shipping failed... and indicate you will do the best you can with them.. but if they fail ... you will be asking for replacements in spring ... they took the risk ...

i would get them out of the box.. and put them in the garage ... until you can plant them this weekend...

and i might change my mind if you give us a pic ...

regardless... its not a houseplant ...

i read nothing.. that suggests its a goner ... its a zone appropriate.. most likely dormant plant ...

ma nature is a cruel witch .... like i said.. had you gotten it last week ... well ...

on reread .... i see now.. you already soaked it ... and have it in the house ... i would have let it thaw naturally in the garage ... you may have loved it too much... only time will tell ...

ken
Romainx87
Original Author
9 years ago
Lol hopefully time tells it survived. The branches don't look exactly thrilled, however it hasn't changed appearance since it came in. Next time I will take your advice and not bring them in so quick. I assumed if it wasn't in the ground with the earth protecting it's roots it would never make it with the cold. Here's to hoping!* thank you for your response :-)
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