The Wisteria genus is a small but beloved plant family consisting of just four species. Of these, three are native to Asia, while one, Wisteria frutescens, also known as American wisteria, can be found growing across several states in North America, including Virginia, Texas, and Florida. All species of wisteria are cherished for their aromatic clusters of purple or white flowers, which bloom from late spring to early summer, making them a popular choice for garden walls, fences, and pergolas.
No matter which species of wisteria graces your yard, knowing how to care for it in the fall is essential. As the days get shorter and temperatures begin to drop, there are several important tasks to complete to ensure these climbing plants thrive and return even more robust next year. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting, taking the proper steps during this season can make all the difference for the following year’s bloom.
As a former professional gardener with experience tending to various wisteria species, I have worked extensively with wisteria plants, including the hardy Japanese wisteria (Wisteria floribunda ‘Alba’) in the Pienza region of Tuscany. This species, known for its resilience, was able to withstand scorching summers and freezing winters, but certain tasks carried out in October and November were vital to maintaining its health. From my experience, fall care is crucial in making sure these fast-growing climbing plants perform their best in the upcoming growing season.
Wisteria plants are known for their toughness, tolerating both drought and cold, and are hardy down to U.S. hardiness zone 5. Generally, these climbers don’t need much protection from the cold during the fall and winter months, as they can handle temperatures as low as -15°C (5°F). However, for gardeners in cooler regions such as Illinois, New York, Pennsylvania, and Michigan, offering some winter protection around the roots is a smart move. Mulching in the fall can help shield the roots from cold temperatures, especially in zones where wisteria is borderline hardy, like in parts of Montana, Alaska, North Dakota, and Minnesota. Mulch not only offers protection from the cold but also aids in water retention during dormancy and improves soil health, leading to better blooms the following year.
One common mistake is pruning wisteria in the fall, which is not recommended. Pruning should be held off until winter, around February, when the plant is fully dormant. Waiting until the leaves have fallen makes it much easier to see where pruning is necessary. In the meantime, gardeners can sit back and enjoy the stunning golden foliage display that wisteria offers in the fall before it sheds its leaves.
While pruning may not be advisable, it’s a good idea to focus on training and tying in wisteria shoots during the fall months. October, November, and December can bring stormy weather and strong winds, which may damage long, loose, or unsupported stems. Taking time to secure these stems to your framework, trellis, or fence can help protect your wisteria from the elements. Using garden twine, available from many retailers, is a simple and cost-effective way to tie in the stems without damaging the plant by tying too tightly. A little care now will help your wisteria survive the winter and come back stronger next spring.
