Just looking for something to add color to your indoor décor this winter, Kalanchoe is one of the most popular potted plants. It is easy to find in garden centers and nurseries, and provides brilliant color together with bright green leaves. It is fairly hardy and requires little water, regular watering however will ensure regular blooming.
There are a few ways to protect your planters over the winter season if you are located in a moderately cool zone with little frost and heavy winds. You can also use mulch, leaves, blankets, bubble wrap and packing styrofoam peanuts. Almost any packing material will do the job.
If you are like to replace the soil in your garden planters and containers each year, just
dump the used soil in the garden. It will not harm your landscape garden, just break up the roots from the plants and it will eventually turn into soil over time.
Most of your planters will do well outdoors or in an unheated space provided they are protected from the very severe cold – a good winter range without protection would be from 32 – 45 degrees. Do not allow the planters to get too cold – wrap your pots or place in a garage or outbuilding.
Some plants are wonderful both inside and outdoors – one of these is the Torenia or Wishbone Flower. It is great for those garden planters and can also be brought into the house for a great houseplant the rest of the year. The Catalina White Linen is so elegant – all white velvety blooms with color greenery.
One way to keep your planters looking good for a longer period is, of course, to prune and pinch back as required during the season. Protect them from the heavy Fall winds by moving them closer to walls and buildings for added protection. They will look better longer.
.jpg)
