Question 1

What is the optimal temperature for American pokeweed?

Accepted Answer

The best temperature for American pokeweed depends on the time of year. There are two primary seasons to discuss for temperature: the growing season, and the dormancy season. During the growing season, once American pokeweed has begun to sprout, the ideal temperature range should be anywhere from 65~80℉(18~27℃). Any colder than 15℉(-10℃), and the plant will suffer; its leaves may brown and wilt, but if this is a short cold snap, then American pokeweed may be able to survive with some help.

During the warmer parts of the year, American pokeweed will need to be similarly protected from temperatures that are too high. 95-105℉ (35-40℃) is the top of this plant’s temperature range, and anything above that will compromise the integrity of the foliage and blooms of American pokeweed. Hotter temperatures can cause wilting, drooping, and even sunburn on the leaves, which can be difficult for American pokeweed to recover from. There are quite a few ways to combat this issue that are quick and easy!

Question 2

Temperature requirements for first year or seedling American pokeweed

Accepted Answer

If this is the first year of your American pokeweed outside as a new plant, then it may need a little extra tending during the coldest months of the year. Not only can frost more severely damage a first-year American pokeweed, but it can also prevent it from growing back as a healthy plant come spring. This plant needs to be kept at 40℉(5℃) or above when they’re not yet established, which can be done either by bringing your American pokeweed inside for a month or two, or putting up mulch or fabric barriers that protect from frost damage.

It’s also a good idea to plant American pokeweed in a shadier spot during the first year or two, as smaller and weaker plants have a more difficult time maintaining their own temperatures in the heat. First-year American pokeweed should receive no more than five hours of direct sunlight per day, particularly if the ambient daytime temperature gets above 80℉(27℃). Shadecloth and frequent watering or misting are the keys to summer heat control.

Question 3

Dormant season temperature recommendations for American pokeweed

Accepted Answer

During the cold winter months, American pokeweed needs a certain measure of cold in order to stay in dormancy until it’s time to sprout. Sprouting too early, that is before the danger of the last frost has passed, can be fatal to American pokeweed, especially if it’s already had a head start when the frost hits. Winter temperatures should ideally stay below 32℉(0℃), but if they get up to 40℉(5℃), everything will be just fine.

An unexpected warm spell during the cold months, which can happen in more temperate climates like woodland rainforests, can trigger a premature sprout from American pokeweed. In this case, if there’s still imminent danger of frost, you may want to try covering it with clear plastic on stakes so that the cold has less of a chance of damaging the new sprout. This setup can be removed when the danger of frost has passed. Occasionally, American pokeweed will be able to resprout at the correct time without any help, but this method increases the chances of a successful second sprouting.

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How can I protect American pokeweed from extreme temperatures?

More Questions About American pokeweed

What is the optimal temperature for American pokeweed?

Temperature requirements for first year or seedling American pokeweed

Dormant season temperature recommendations for American pokeweed