In most of North America, temperatures are beginning to drop as fall approaches. When the leaves begin to turn brown and yellow, we need to pay more attention to the outdoor plants at our business. How do we protect our exterior containerized plants from cold damage?.
Cold damage to exterior plants occurs primarily in two ways: The first way is through desiccation (water loss). The second is through cold damage to plant tissue. Cold damage to plant tissue is highly dependent on the cold-hardiness adaptability of each plant type. Coconut palms don’t thrive in Detroit for a reason! Each type of cold damage is discussed below.
In the winter, thirst can be caused by dry soils, frozen soil and water, and high winds that blow away water. In the winter, plants don’t need as much water, but they still take it in all the time, even when it’s very cold. That is especially true for plants that keep their leaves all winter, like spruce, junipers, rhododendrons, hollies, and more.
You can best protect exterior plants from desiccation by keeping them well hydrated. When temperatures are above 40°F, check soil moisture and water if needed (be sure to avoid over-watering). When temperatures are consistently warm in fall and winter, take advantage and keep the plants hydrated. Do not water plants when it is below 40°F or when temperatures will stay below freezing for more than 24 hours. The water will freeze and not be usable by the plants.
Evergreen foliage can also be protected from excess water loss using anti-desiccant sprays. These sprays are sold at most garden centers. They work by reducing water loss from the foliage. If you use an anti-desiccant, be sure to read and follow the directions. Although anti-desiccants can help, they are not a substitute for keeping the soil hydrated.
Pothos plants, with their trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves, are some of the most popular houseplants around. Native to the tropical forests of Southeast Asia, pothos are adapted to warm and humid conditions. However, they have proven to be quite resilient houseplants that can thrive indoors in temperate climates Still, temperature is an important factor to consider when growing pothos. Too cold and the plant will become stressed and decline Too hot and it will likewise suffer. So what is the ideal temperature range for pothos?
Through research and real-world experience both professional growers and hobbyist gardeners have found that pothos do best within a temperature range of 60-85°F (15-29°C). Pothos kept consistently within this range will grow strong and healthy, producing lush green foliage. Temperatures on the warmer end of this range between 70-85°F, are ideal for active growth and will encourage faster growth and more prolific trailing. Cooler temps down to 60°F will slow growth somewhat but are still suitable for pothos.
Going outside of this ideal range by too much can spell trouble for pothos. Most sources recommend trying to keep temperatures above 50°F for pothos plants. Prolonged exposure to temperatures below 50°F can lead to cold damage. Common signs of cold stress include leaves yellowing and wilting. Below freezing temperatures can kill pothos vines and leaves entirely. However, the roots are actually pretty cold hardy. There are reports of pothos surviving dips into the 40s and even 30s, especially when roots are insulated by soil or water. Still, freezing conditions are risky and best avoided.
On the other end of the scale, excessive heat can also harm pothos. Temperatures above 95°F are outside of the comfort zone and may cause heat stress. The leaves can yellow, brown, or curl. Growth may slow. But pothos are tropical plants, so they can withstand brief exposures to hotter conditions better than cold. Overall, it’s smart to refrain from temperature extremes on both ends when growing pothos indoors.
What does this temperature guidance mean for growing pothos in your home? Here are some key takeaways:
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In most properly climate-controlled homes, temperatures are suitable for pothos year-round. Shoot for an ambient air temp of 65-80°F.
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Avoid placing pothos next to cold drafts from windows and doors during winter. Keep above 50°F.
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In summer, don’t place pothos in hot spots like directly next to heat vents. Keep below 95°F.
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Consider a circulating fan to disperse hot and cold pockets of air. Gentle airflow benefits pothos.
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Monitor for signs of heat or cold stress like yellowing leaves and adjust placement accordingly.
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Insulating containers, like plastic nursery pots, help buffer root zone temps.
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Basement growing can work but heat sources may be needed in winter to keep above 50°F.
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A consistent temperature range in the 60s or 70s year-round is ideal for healthy pothos.
Keep in mind that pothos kept as houseplants need protection from temperature extremes, especially cold. But as mentioned earlier, these tropical vines are actually quite resilient. Don’t stress too much if the mercury dips or spikes briefly outside of the preferred range. Focus on providing the best care possible the majority of the time. Proper watering, lighting, and nutrition also play key roles in maintaining strong pothos plants.
With a little awareness of ideal temperature parameters for pothos, these easy-care trailing houseplants can thrive for homeowners almost anywhere. Check for cold or heat stress warning signs, and adjust the placement and environment accordingly. Keep ambient air temperatures moderate. Insulate pots and roots when possible. And enjoy the vigorous growth and cascading vines that make pothos so popular!
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In most of North America, temperatures are beginning to drop as fall approaches. When the leaves begin to turn brown and yellow, we need to pay more attention to the outdoor plants at our business. How do we protect our exterior containerized plants from cold damage?.
Cold damage to exterior plants occurs primarily in two ways: The first way is through desiccation (water loss). The second is through cold damage to plant tissue. Cold damage to plant tissue is highly dependent on the cold-hardiness adaptability of each plant type. Coconut palms don’t thrive in Detroit for a reason! Each type of cold damage is discussed below.
In the winter, thirst can be caused by dry soils, frozen soil and water, and high winds that blow away water. In the winter, plants don’t need as much water, but they still take it in all the time, even when it’s very cold. That is especially true for plants that keep their leaves all winter, like spruce, junipers, rhododendrons, hollies, and more.
You can best protect exterior plants from desiccation by keeping them well hydrated. When temperatures are above 40°F, check soil moisture and water if needed (be sure to avoid over-watering). When temperatures are consistently warm in fall and winter, take advantage and keep the plants hydrated. Do not water plants when it is below 40°F or when temperatures will stay below freezing for more than 24 hours. The water will freeze and not be usable by the plants.
Evergreen foliage can also be protected from excess water loss using anti-desiccant sprays. These sprays are sold at most garden centers. They work by reducing water loss from the foliage. If you use an anti-desiccant, be sure to read and follow the directions. Although anti-desiccants can help, they are not a substitute for keeping the soil hydrated.
Cold damage to plant tissue
When planning for an exterior installation, it is important to keep a few things in mind.
- Strong winter winds are less likely to hit a building from the south and east. These winds typically blow from the north and west. Choose tougher plants if they will be facing north or west. You should only choose outside plants that can handle the cold in your area.
- A barrier made of mulch like straw, wooden stakes, and burlap can protect plants from cold damage and drying out. However, this might not be possible since the barrier has shown up. You might have to temporarily change the way the plant looks on the outside in order to keep it alive during harsh winter temperatures.
- If it’s possible, some plants can be moved to warmer or safer places.
Rehabilitating Houseplants with Cold Weather Damage
FAQ
What temperature should I bring my Pothos inside?
How cold can a Pothos withstand?
What temperature is too cold for potted plants?
Is 40 too cold for plants?
What temperature can Pothos tolerate?
In general, pothos can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C), but temperatures below that can damage the plant’s leaves and slow down its growth. Finally, it is crucial to keep the temperature around your pothos stable in the winter and avoid sudden temperature changes or exposure to cold drafts.
Can Pothos live in cold weather?
Pothos thrive in warm climates. With enough water and good humidity, they can live in temperatures as high as 100°F (38°C). On the other hand, Pothos are not frost-tolerant and will die if exposed to freezing temperatures. What Temperature Is Too Cold for Pothos? What Temperature Should Pothos Be In? Can a Pothos survive outside in winter?
What temperature should a pothos plant be in winter?
The ideal temperature range for pothos is between 70°F and 90°F (21°C to 32°C), so ensure that the insulation allows them to stay within this range. During winter, it’s crucial to keep your pothos plants indoors or in a greenhouse to protect them from cold temperatures.
Do Pothos plants wilt when exposed to cold temperatures?
Pothos plants are sensitive to cold temperatures and can exhibit various signs of stress when exposed to low temperatures. This section will discuss some common symptoms of cold stress, such as wilting and discoloration, stunted growth, and leaf drop.