Reviving Delayed Polygonum (Silver Fleece Vine) After Harsh Winter

Polygonum aubertii (silver lace vine) shows only basal growth in Toronto after severe winter, despite green cambium on upper stems—indicating winter kill on exposed portions.

Diagnosis

Snow insulated lower stems; exposed upper growth suffered desiccation/freeze damage. Green bark confirms living tissue, but buds may be dead. Nitrogen fertilization 4-5 weeks ago promoted foliage over recovery.

Recovery Pruning

Cut all dead wood back to live buds (green cambium + plump buds). This vine tolerates—even prefers—hard annual spring pruning to ground level for vigor and control. Remove all questionable growth now.

Future Management

Annual hard prune in early spring (March/April). Avoid nitrogen-heavy fertilizers; use balanced or phosphorus-focused. Ensure soil drainage in heavy clay. This "nearly indestructible" vine will regrow 15+ feet in a season from the base.

Patience: new growth from the crown will rapidly cover the pergola again.