Winter Hardiness of Eucomis L'Hér.

For members of the genus Eucomis, winter hardiness is not a fixed metric and is classified as conditional. Plants are capable of withstanding sub-zero temperatures down to -6...-7°C if a mulch layer of up to 20 cm is provided; however, the primary risk is the loss of the root system due to excessive soil moisture during the dormancy period.

High relative winter hardiness is only achieved when ensuring ideal drainage to prevent waterlogging and providing protection against sudden temperature fluctuations. If the regional conditions do not meet the requirements of hardiness zones 7–10, the mandatory practice of lifting the bulbs after the foliage yellows and storing them in a cool, dry place until spring must be followed.

A biological feature of this crop is the late start of the growing season after overwintering in the soil, which makes it difficult to visually assess the survival of bulbs in the early spring period. In a professional context, the winter hardiness of Eucomis is viewed not as a constant, but as an indicator of the risk level of rot under specific winter moisture conditions.