Honeysuckle plants (Lonicera spp.) are twining vines and viney bushes that readily climb buildings, fences, trellises and even trees and other plants. Their fast growth rate and delicate, strongly scented flowers make honeysuckles a popular choice for gardeners in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 5 through 9. Most honeysuckle varieties are capable of withstanding a variety of weather and environmental conditions, but they do require some special winter care.
Because members of the Lonicera genus are so vigorous, they can withstand pruning at almost any time of year. Heavily overgrown plants and those with a lot of deadwood, however, should be pruned during the dormant cold season. Removing large amounts of material when the plant is not dormant increases the risk of shock and could slow down growth or invite disease. To keep your honeysuckle growing at a moderate rate and ensure flowers next season, prune off one third to one half of the upper branches.
Protection from Weather
In moderate climates, honeysuckle usually needs very little protection from cold weather. This is especially true for frost-hardy species, such as Lonicera sempervirens, which can withstand even hard frosts and snowy weather. More delicate tropical varieties can suffer damage if the weather becomes unusually cold, however. Some tender honeysuckles can also be damaged by strong winter winds or rain. Careful pruning and planting these vines close to a fence or other windbreak can help reduce the risk of damage, as can mulching around the roots when unusually chilly weather is expected.
Evergreen Honeysuckle Varieties
Some honeysuckle species do not experience a dormant period and stay green all winter long. A few even continue flowering during the cold season. Care for these plants as you would during the normal growing season, sheltering them from cold if necessary. Because these honeysuckle varieties do not go dormant, they should be pruned after the flowering season is over to avoid removing new buds.
Because honeysuckle is such an aggressive plant, it can easily take over the landscape. Some species, such as Japanese honeysuckle (Lonicera japonica), are considered dangerous invasives in North America. Avoid planting non-native honeysuckles in your landscape to reduce the risk to native plants. If you already have a non-native honeysuckle, consider replacing it with a less invasive native. Some, such as Lonicera americana, actually have showier blossoms.
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