From Homesandgardens · · 1m 30s
7 Tender Plants to Bring Indoors Before October Frost
Move citrus, elephant ears, pelargoniums, fuchsias, bougainvillea, bird of paradise, and salvias indoors before October frost hits.
In brief
Move citrus, elephant ears, pelargoniums, fuchsias, bougainvillea, bird of paradise, and salvias indoors before October frost hits. Bring seven tender plants indoors before October frost to protect them from freezing temperatures. Originally reported by Homesandgardens.
Why Move Tender Plants Early
October can bring freezing nights that kill outdoor plants. Bring tender plants indoors before first frosts hit.
Check Frost Forecasts
Monitor frost forecasts to avoid surprise frosts that damage tender plants. Don't assume you know when frosts will arrive.
Citrus Trees
Move citrus trees indoors once nighttime temperatures drop below 50f. Compact varieties need 55-65f and 5 hours sun daily.
Elephant Ears
Bring elephant ears indoors before temperatures drop below 60f. They need bright light and less water during winter.
Pelargoniums
Prune pelargoniums by a third before moving indoors. They need bright, warm spots but avoid radiators or heating vents.
Tender Fuchsias
Overwinter fuchsias indoors with grow lights or keep dormant in frost-free, dark places. Check for yellowing leaves.
Bougainvillea
Prune bougainvillea before moving indoors. They need frost-free spaces like greenhouses or basements with light and water.
Bird of Paradise
Move bird of paradise indoors once nighttime temps drop below 55f. Keep them in bright spots with 65-75f temperatures.
Tender Salvias
Bring salvias indoors or take cuttings for winter. They need frost-free spaces and avoid cold, wet soil.
What to Shop
Avoid overwatering, lack of light, and placing plants near heat sources. Acclimate plants for two weeks before moving indoors.
The one thing
Bring seven tender plants indoors before October frost to protect them from freezing temperatures.
