COLD HARDY PLANTS Growers and Breeders of Unusual Cold Hardy Plants

COLD HARDY PLANTS Growers and Breeders of Unusual Cold Hardy Plants

*Opuntia engelmannii*
Quantity of plants tested: 1 Size of plant tested: multi-padded plant placed in the ground in August 2001, mature plant purchased at Home Depot. Soil texture: loamy sand covered with granite peastone. When planted: the plant was planted in the ground in August 2000. Winter protection: a poly roof covering with no sides Microclimate: warm microclimate, approximately 2 feet off a south facing wall. Temperature: refer to 2001-2003 winters on this chart Findings: the plant did well the first winter and had no damage. The first winter was the warmest winter in Rhode Island history, so not much of a zone 6 test. The second winter is coming to an end and it appears the new pads which grew last season are damaged. No obvious damage is noted on the older pads.
	September 27, 2001 - This photo shows the plant prior to any cold. It's been in the ground for about 6 weeks now.
	December 1, 2001 - here's the plant as of December 1, 2001. Showing no damage at all. The pads do not deflate when it gets cold out.
	June 2002 - here's one of the flowers. We crossed engelmannii with several other super hardy cactus in the garden (that's what the tape is for).
	October 22, 2002 - here's the pretty red fruits.
	March 8, 2003 - here's same plant in early March. This winter was just too cold for it. It did well until the temperatures started to warm up. Low temperature was about -0.5F.

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