At Italian Terrace, we create our pots to remain in the garden year round, confidently enduring the winter months. However, with the dramatic and unpredictable shifts in modern climate now a regular feature, it is wise to take a few extra precautions.
It’s important to understand a key fact about real, traditional terracotta: empty pots are “frost proof”, but when planted, there is truly no such thing as ‘frost-proof.’ Because true terracotta is a naturally porous material, it will always absorb some moisture. Only synthetic materials or pots completely smothered in a surface lacquer can claim absolute frost-proofing. Our pots are built to the highest standard to resist frost, but care is still required.
Terracotta is naturally porous. Absorbed water is what can cause potential damage if a hard frost hits and it freezes and expands. The simple remedy is to always use pot feet to elevate your pots from the damp ground, helping to protect the integrity of the pot through the winter.
As part of your preparation for the cold season, special attention must be paid to water features. It is essential to empty them completely now, before the first severe freeze. Water freezing and expanding within the confines of a feature’s basin or bowl can put undue pressure on the material. To avoid any risk of damage, please ensure you completely empty the main basin and the reservoir too. This simple, proactive step is the best way to safeguard your water feature and ensure it is ready to run perfectly next spring.
If you live in an area prone to frost pockets, a simple wrapping of fleece or hessian is strongly advisable. Look to the classics for inspiration: at the Palace of Versailles, the statues are wrapped for winter with very stylish hessian and string—proof that protection doesn’t need to be ugly!
For those in high-wind areas, or if you have tall pots or tall plants, tethering is vital. If you have a wall or strong fence nearby, make use of it. Secure the plant or pot to the wall using strong, durable twine.
A little care and foresight now ensure your terracotta will stand ready to welcome the awakening of spring.
Please see our very useful advice leaflet and adhere to our pot care instructions to ensure the longevity of your pots, it’s all there, but for any further advice, we are always there to assist – contact us.