As the crisp bite of autumn settles in (like it has already in southern Indiana), the first frost is right around the corner. That means it’s soon time to bring in your flowers before temperatures dip too low. I got a jump on the overwintering chore.
Most flowers suffer damage when temperatures drop below 32°F, and even a light frost can harm delicate petals. Although there are some tender perennials I wouldn’t mind bringing in, I simply don’t have room with all the dog beds. I focused on potted plants instead.
Give them a drink and find a sunny spot.
Before bringing my plants inside, I gave them all a good watering and let the excess moisture drain off. Experts say this reduces shock and helps them transition indoors. The barndo doesn’t have traditional heating vents that would dry them out, so that’s not a concern for me.
I do need to remember that fewer daylight hours mean slower growth, so I should water sparingly and skip the fertilizer until spring. I don’t need a reminder to rotate pots occasionally to keep growth even, because they start looking rough by January or so.
It’s that open your windows time of year!
In my slice of the world, we’re at that time of year where it gets really chilly at night, but the sun warms up the afternoons to the perfect temperature. I’ve got most of my A/C units turned off and windows open. Fall is WONDERFUL, isn’t it? 🩷
Now you know: Between 10%-15% of married couples reconcile after they separate and about 6% of couples marry each other again after they divorce.