As fall temperatures begin to drop, it is time to think about which plants should come indoors before the first frost. Tropical plants, tender herbs and container plants that cannot handle cold weather may still have plenty of life left in them.
At Copia Home & Garden in South Salem, NY, a little preparation now can help you protect favorite plants and enjoy them again next year.
Start With Tender Tropical Plants
Many tropical plants thrive outdoors during summer but cannot tolerate cold temperatures.
Plants such as hibiscus, mandevilla, tropical ferns and other heat-loving varieties should be brought indoors before frost threatens.
Do not wait until the last minute. Moving plants inside a little earlier gives you time to inspect, clean and prepare them properly.
Bring in Tender Herbs
Some herbs can continue growing indoors if they are given enough light.
Rosemary and other tender herbs may be worth bringing inside, especially if they are healthy and well established.
Before moving them indoors, trim away damaged growth, check for insects and make sure the container drains well.
Check Container Plants Carefully
Not every container plant needs to be saved, but some may be worth overwintering.
If you have a favorite tropical, decorative foliage plant or tender perennial in a pot, consider whether it can be kept indoors through winter.
Plants grown in containers are especially vulnerable to cold because their roots are more exposed than plants growing in the ground.
Inspect for Pests Before the Move
Before bringing anything indoors, check leaves, stems and soil carefully.
Look for common pests such as:
- Aphids
- Spider mites
- Scale
- Mealybugs
- Whiteflies
It is much easier to deal with pest problems before plants come inside and are placed near established houseplants.
Help Plants Adjust Indoors
Indoor conditions are very different from life outdoors.
Light levels are usually lower, humidity may be different and plants often need less water once they are inside. Place them in the brightest appropriate location and be careful not to overwater.
Some leaf drop or slower growth can happen while plants adjust.
Decide What Is Worth Saving
You do not need to bring every plant inside.
Focus on favorites, valuable tropicals and plants you would like to grow again next year. Sometimes saving a few healthy plants is easier than trying to overwinter everything.
First Frost FAQs
When should I bring tender plants indoors?
Bring them inside before temperatures become cold enough to damage them. Timing depends on the plant.
Can tropical plants survive indoors all winter?
Many can, especially if they receive enough light and proper care.
Can herbs be brought inside for winter?
Yes. Some tender herbs can continue growing indoors if they have enough light and are kept in well-drained containers.
Should I inspect plants for pests first?
Yes. Always check leaves, stems, pots and soil before moving outdoor plants into the house.
Visit Copia Home & Garden
Not sure which plants should come indoors before cold weather arrives? Stop by Copia Home & Garden in South Salem and let us help you protect your favorite tropicals, herbs and container plants.
Copia Home & Garden
475 Smith Ridge Rd South
Salem, NY 10590
(914) 533-7242
Fall Hours:
Monday: 8 AM to 5 PM
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday through Saturday: 8 AM to 5 PM
Sunday: 9 AM to 4 PM
