Johnsons's Garden Centers Text File document - copyright 2004
PDF file available at http://www.johnsonsgarden.com/newsletter/houseplants.html

Coming In From The Cold
September 2006
Lee Ann Mies, Johnson's West 13th Greenhouse Manager

    Soon the cool, crisp nights of autumn will arrive and houseplants
that have spent the summer outdoors will need to be brought back
inside. Plants need to be in before  nighttime temperatures drop below
50 degrees.

    Prepare your plants for the transition by washing them thoroughly
with your garden hose. Trim off any brown or yellowing leaves and stems.
Remove any fading flowers. Inspect both sides of the leaves, stems and
soil for any evidence of bugs or disease. I recommend spraying your
plants with ferti-lome Indoor / Outdoor Insect Spray as a precaution.
You do not want to bring an infested plant into your home.

    An application of ferti-lome Systemic Insecticide Granules will help
keep your houseplants pest free during the winter months. Monthly
fertilization with ferti-lome Geranium, Hanging Basket & Pansy Food
(20-20-20) will be sufficient until spring.

    You many want to consider bringing in other plants as well.
Geraniums, hibiscus, bougainvillea and ferns do well spending the winter
inside. Fertilize blooming plants often with Geranium, Hanging Basket &
Pansy Food to maintain a healthy plant.

    On those especially cold winter nights, remember to pull your plants
back from their window or door. Take them off your windowsill before
closing the curtains. Your plants are inside to stay warm, just like
you.

    If you don't have houseplants to bring in for the winter, consider
shopping our new arrivals at Johnson's. Our staff will be happy to help
select the perfect plant that's just right for you.