How low can the temperature go without harming my coleus/geraniums outside (that I plan to overwinter)? The past years I took them inside when the temperature barely got cold, which seemed too early. Next week the low temperature is going to be 40 degrees F. I know freezing is immediate kill, so I definitely am not going to wait that long. But a few degrees above freezing may still hurt the plants? Should I take them inside this weekend? Thanks!
Hey GreenLeaf, The coleus won't like temperatures much below 55° F (13° C). I have seen geraniums (Pelargonium sp.) thrive later into the fall when temps were dipping to the 40s, but it does stress the plant. If it is going down to 40° F soon, you might as well bring them in anytime.
Thanks, Eric La Fountaine! I think I waited too long. The high temperature for today is in the low 50s, I'll start making preparations to take them in.
