ᐅ Planning: Where to Overwinter Plants?

Hello dear forum,

we are currently finalizing our house plans. One detail is still missing. We would like to have Mediterranean container plants in the garden (such as olive, lemon, oleander, etc.). In older houses, these plants are overwintered in an unheated but masonry-built shed. In new buildings, it is apparently too warm for this purpose (even in the basement). Which (cost-effective) solution do you recommend or use for an overwintering place? Garden sheds with frost protection, unheated conservatories, masonry rooms outside the thermal envelope, or other alternatives?

Thank you!

pablobw

I have always wrapped the olive tree well and left it outside.
Since this year, I have a greenhouse without heating... which motivated me to buy lemon, lime, and oleander.
Let’s see how the temperatures turn out; alternatively, a garage with a window?

Yes, a garage with a window would be an option, but as far as I understand, it is usually included within the thermal envelope. How do other plant enthusiasts handle this in new constructions?

Thermal envelope? Garage? Is it heated?

pablobw schrieb:
I wanted to say that the garage is integrated into the house and insulated, so it might also be too warm. Or am I mistaken?

Just because it is insulated does not mean it will be warm.
I think this is a good place for the plants – frost-free! If you also provide enough light, the plants will feel comfortable during winter too 🙂

Yes, that makes sense. I think the garage with a window should also be a good location. Thanks!