What do I need to do to bring my plants indoors now that have been growing on my deck?
I want to be sure I'm not bringing in any "critters" I have plants and herbs. Thank you.
Answer
Bring your plants in before temperatures drop below 50 degrees to avoid shock due to the change in temperature and humidity. Exceptions would include winter jasmine, cymbidium orchids, Christmas and Thanksgiving cactus among others. Soak the pots to their rims to force insects to the surface where you can remove them. Hold off on repotting until early spring. Water only when needed as overwatering is more damaging than being a little pot bound for the winter. Hold off on fertilizing until late winter. The ideal environment is 50 degrees with moderate humidity and a sufficient light source.