# Protect Tender Plants Before Frost Hits

> Move houseplants indoors before frost to save them from cold damage.
- Title: Protect Tender Plants Before Frost Hits · Homesandgardens
- Summary: Move houseplants indoors before frost to save them from cold damage. Gardeners should bring tropical houseplants indoors when nighttime temperatures drop to…
- Keywords: tender houseplants, frost protection, houseplants, tropical plants, 50f, pelargoniums, coleus, begonias, bromeliads, succulents, boston ferns, pothos
- Source: Homesandgardens — https://homesandgardens.com/gardens/when-frost-hits-these-are-the-plants-to-protect-first
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: tender houseplants, frost protection, houseplants, tropical plants, 50f, pelargoniums, coleus, begonias, bromeliads, succulents, boston ferns, pothos
## Frost Threat Approaches
October and early November bring first frosty nights for gardens in zones 5-8.
## Prioritize Tender Plants
Move houseplants and tropical plants indoors before freezing temperatures arrive.
## Tender Plants at Risk
Temperatures dropping below 32°F damage tender plants and kill them.
## First Priority: Tropical Houseplants
Tropical houseplants need to be brought indoors before frost to prevent cold damage.
## Protect Tropical Plants
Tropical plants like pelargoniums, coleus, begonias, bromeliads, succulents, and Boston ferns require immediate indoor protection.
## Expert Advice on Timing
Move houseplants indoors when nighttime temperatures approach 50°F to prevent frost damage.
## Michael Jesiolowski's Tip
Check for insects and apply insecticidal soap or neem oil before moving houseplants indoors.
## Mirela Bajic's Warning
A light frost can wreck pelargoniums, tender salvias, and young citrus plants.
## Frost Protection Methods
Use frost cloth, cloches, or bed sheets to protect plants from cold temperatures.
## Container Plants Need Care
Plants in containers are more exposed and need to be moved indoors or covered with frost cloth.
## Newly Planted Plants
Newly planted specimens need mulch and frost cloth to protect roots from cold.
## What to Shop
Frost covers and plant caddies are available at Amazon for easy indoor movement.
## Key takeaway

Gardeners should bring tropical houseplants indoors when nighttime temperatures drop to 50°F to prevent frost damage.