Overwintering Eucalyptus
Eucalyptus seed continues to be in very short supply. Existing plants can usually be overwintered with some additional protection in zone 5 and warmer.
Growing eucalyptus in a high tunnel should give enough winter protection in zone 5-8. In high tunnels in colder areas, after the season is finished, cut the plants back to 18-24" and insulate the trunks with shredded leaves or straw. Add row cover over the leaves or straw. The goal is to keep the ground from freezing. Make sure the soil is damp over the winter.
Field grown eucalyptus in zones 5-8 can be cut back to 18-24" after the season is finished. Cover completely with shredded leaves or straw. Then cover with clear plastic, anchored securely. The goal is to keep the ground from freezing.
Remove the row cover or plastic and pull back the mulch in early spring. They plants should sprout from the along the trunk, or at the soil line. Protect tender spring growth from late frosts.
Overwintered plants are usually large enough to start harvesting in early July. Cutting out the top of each trunk in mid-June will produce more usable side shoots faster that letting the plant become a tall tree.