Do I have to dig my caladiums this minute?

It's going down to 30 degrees tonight. Do I HAVE to dig my caladiums this afternoon? It will be back above freezing again for a couple of weeks I'm sure. This will just kill the foliage... will it kill the bulb too? I ask because I'm pushed for time cutting coleus and bringing in annuals this afternoon and it's already 5:30 pm.

Also, would you bring into the garage you un-planted perennials?

(I know, I'm a mess...)

Thanks y'all.

Your perennials should be fine outside, as long as you get them planted before really harsh cold sets in. I think the caladiums should be fine too. Seems like I allowed the tops to get frosted before without issue.

Thanks. I thought I'd let the tops die and then dig them up. Happy Halloween!

Oh, just thought of something, if its rainy and cool when they're going dormant, they rot easily, so its a good idea to get them dug before wet weather sets in.

3gardners,

I wouldn't worry about rushing out and digging up the bulbs. That doesn't mean you don't need to but the first freeze isn't going to harm them, it should actually help them a little!! The cold temps should knock the plants back if they haven't already. The colder soil should help the bulbs lose there root system. A very un-scientific explanation is the bulbs will suck there roots back into the bulb.
I wouldn't wait to much longer though!!

Bill

OK, Thanks. We are already back up to the high 60's and will be in the low 70's all next week. It's always like that here in GA before the cold realy sets in for good. The leaves aren't even really dead yet.