January 6, 2026, 9:54 am | Read time: 3 minutes
When plants fail to sprout in spring, winter is often hastily blamed as the main culprit. In reality, it’s usually several factors working together. Not just extreme cold, but also care mistakes, unfavorable locations, and weather conditions lead to plants not surviving the cold season. myHOMEBOOK gardening expert Franka Kruse-Gering explains why plants in the garden don’t survive the winter.
1. Frost Drought
Frost drought occurs when plants evaporate water through leaves or needles in winter but cannot absorb water due to frozen soil. Evergreen shrubs, which remain active even in the cold season, are particularly affected. Damage usually becomes apparent in spring through brown leaves or dead shoots.
Evergreen plants should be well-watered before winter. Additional watering during frost-free periods is advisable. A wind-protected location and a layer of mulch on the ground help reduce drying out.
2. Strong Temperature Fluctuations
Strong shifts between mild winter phases and frost-stressed plants. Such fluctuations are particularly pronounced on sunny house walls, especially in south and southwest locations. While house walls offer important protection from cold winds, they also warm up significantly on sunny days and release stored heat. This can prematurely awaken plants from winter dormancy before renewed frost causes damage.
House walls are generally sensible locations for sensitive plants, but should not be fully sunny in winter. Light winter protection, like fleece or brushwood, helps buffer temperature swings without losing the positive wind protection.
3. Winter Sun
The low-standing winter sun can damage plants by increasing evaporation through leaves and needles, while roots in frozen soil cannot absorb water. Evergreen plants in sunny south and southwest locations, such as near house walls, are particularly at risk. Although house walls provide wind protection, they also store heat and intensify plant warming on sunny winter days. The increased evaporation can lead to dry stress.
Ideal locations are those protected from strong winds but not in full sun during winter. Alternatively, temporary shading of the south side with fleece, jute, or reed mats protects against excessive sunlight without completely giving up wind protection.
Understanding Frost Drought in Plants
Caring for Conifers in Winter
4. Bare Frost
Bare frost is another reason why plants in the garden don’t survive the winter. It involves frost periods without a protective snow cover. Snow usually acts as an insulating layer, protecting soil and roots from extreme temperatures. Without this protective layer, roots can freeze deeply and suffer permanent damage.
A mulch layer of leaves, bark material, or straw protects the soil from deep freezing. For sensitive perennials and shrubs, brushwood can also be used as natural frost protection.
5. Damage from Incorrect Winter Protection
Inappropriate winter protection can harm plants more than help them. Airtight materials or plastic films lead to moisture, condensation, and poor ventilation during thawing weather. This promotes rot, mold, and fungal diseases.
Frost protection should always be breathable. Natural materials like brushwood, jute, or fleece are better suited than films. It’s also important to regularly check the protection during mild weather and loosen or temporarily remove it if necessary.