Zone 8a - Is it OK to keep in pots?

I love these plants and would like to start growing them. Can I keep them in pots and move them into the Garage during winter?

Will they stay small in pots are will they die from not being able to grow to their normal size?

Thanks, Tracey

Hi Tracey!! I live in zone 8a also, and I left mine outside last year, well mulched and it's about a foot and a half tall now. In our area, I think we must have the option of leaving them out or bringing them inside. If they are kept inside, they will, of course, get a head start in the spring and begin blooming sooner. I'm a newbie too!! SherryLike

The versicolors might not winter over outside. If you keep them in pots, you might have to pull them out of the pot the next spring and trim off some of the roots and repot with new soil. Otherwise, they should be able to handle staying in pots over the winter.

Welcome Tracey!!

I live in zone 8a just south of Myrtle Beach,S.C. and have plants that overwintered in pots outside as well as plants planted directly in the ground and they have all come back after all of the nights,almost 2 solid months of 20 degree temps this winter. The ones in pots were not mulched either.

Tracey: Welcome to Dave's and the Brug Forum! You're going to love it here. Lots of friendly, helpful people to answer all your questions, and share in the joys and unfortunately, sometimes sadness of growing these gorgeous flowers! Hope you enjoy it... Gretchen

Welcome, Tracey


Edit :I'm sorry, David...didn't see you there. Good to see you!

This message was edited Apr 16, 2004 11:07 PM

Hi Tracey! Welcome to our group insanity! You can do what ever you want with these, they make life so much fun!


Good to see you David! How are you doing?