Expert: C.L. Fornari - 9/28/2002

Question
I live in southeast PA & have many different annuals planted in both pots & the ground.  This is the first I've ever planted flowers & plants, and am not sure what to do with the annuals now that fall is approaching.  Do I leave them?  Dig them up?  Your help would be greatly appreciated!!
Thank you,
Cindy

Answer
Cindy,
Leave all the plants until they are hit by hard frost, and then pull the old foliage out of the ground, bringing as much root system as comes with the stems.  It is easiest to do this right after they freeze for the first time, as the stems still have some strength in them and should come out easily.  Throw them in the compost or brush pile.

Some people overwinter special potted annuals indoors - geraniums and coleus are favorites to bring in as houseplants and grow in a sunny window over the winter.  Most annuals, however, are prone to insects indoors (whitefly, mealy bug and scale being the top three) so be aware that you will have to monitor and spray with insecticidal soap if you see insects.

If you have any questions about overwintering a specific potted annual, write a follow-up question!

all the best,
C.L.