Exact time to bring your planted pots inside for winter - and which types need saving

Chris Bonnett, of GardeningExpress.co.uk, has shared his top tips for keeping your plants alive this winter. He explained what type of plants will need saving from being outside

Gardening experts have revealed what time you should bring your potted plants inside the house for winter.

The team at Gardening Express have shared why it is important for certain plants to be removed from outdoors. And with winter around the corner, it seems like the perfect time to take these tips on board. Chris Bonnett, the founder of GardeningExpress.co.uk, stressed that when night temperatures plummet below 10C, it is time to move your plant. He said that your plants are likely to need moving from as early as October. However, if you notice harsh weather conditions beforehand, then it is ok to relocate your flowers from September. Chris warned that it is important to pay attention to the weather or it "might already be too late."

He said: “Timing is key when it comes to moving your plants inside. Most tender plants start to suffer when the temperatures at night drop below ten degrees and by the time the first frosts hit, it might already be too late. Hardy plants can thrive in cold temperatures. However, tender perennials like geraniums and fuchsias and tropical plants such as hibiscus, palms and orchids need protection from the cold. When making the transition, make sure to inspect the plants for pests, prune dead foliage and choose a good spot for them inside where they get adequate sunlight.” Chris explained what type of plants need to be moved inside to ensure they get enough sunlight. Below he has revealed the three types of plants that will need to be moved urgently.

Tropical plants

Tropical plants struggle to cope when temperature fluctuations and can get into a state of stress which can result in death. According to the expert, it’s best to place them in a greenhouse during autumn and winter. However, if you don’t have a greenhouse, then hunt for a spot in your home which gets a decent amount of sunlight. Tropical plants that should be moved indoors include; hibiscus, citrus trees, orchids and palm species such as areca and parlour.

Tender perennials

Tender perennials should be moved inside for them to stand a chance at survival. The expert advised that they should be placed close to a window sill. It is also important that you change the direction of the pot every couple of weeks, so the plant as a whole gets enough sunlight. Tender perennials include popular blooms such as geraniums, begonias, dahlias and fuchsias.

Houseplants

Although some people move their houseplants outside during the summer months for them to get extra sunlight, they can't stay out there for long. As soon as temperatures begin to plunge in winter, they need to be taken back inside. Unfortunately, houseplants can easily get severe damage from even a small amount of frost.