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and Alyssum, are other plants that are more tolerant of cooler temperatures. Plants such as Geraniums, Begonias, Impatiens, Fuchsia, Marigolds, Dahlias, and Calibrachoa have little to no frost tolerance. Please note that all plants need to be Hardened Off before transplanting outside in colder temperatures. As previously stated, Montana spring weather can be very unpredictable and can change dramatically very quickly. Cool spring temperatures, strong winds, and a strong, bright sun can be stressful on plants that have been grown in a greenhouse environment. “Hardening Off ” is a process that minimizes these risks to tender plants. Whether you just picked up some plants from your favorite nursery or started the plants yourself at home, the following are some guidelines to Hardening Off greenhouse plants to the great outdoors.
lPlace plants outdoors in a sheltered location for a couple of hours on a nice, mild day and return indoors at night. Indoors could be a garage or garden shed that does not freeze. Protecting the plants from strong winds, sun, cool temperatures, and heavy rains is very important. lEach day the plants may be exposed to one more hour of direct light and then moved back to their indoor, protected night environment.
Garden Ready
lThis process may take up to 7-14 days depending on weather conditions and the variety of plant. lKeep an eye on the weather forecasts and if strong storms or low temperatures are forecast keep the plants inside. This is especially true during the first few days. lAfter the Hardening Off process is completed, your plants will be able to tolerate most of spring’s unpredictable weather. lContinue to take steps to lessen your plants' exposure if extreme conditions come about. Perennial Plants that are greenhouse grown can often acclimate faster than annuals but be cautious as Montana spring weather can be highly unpredictable. Products that can help in protecting your plants include
lFrost Blanket
lKozy Coats, Season Starters, Wall-O-Waters lHot Kaps lPre-formed Frost Protection Tent For 40 years Hooper's Garden Center has been helping homeowners and landscape contractors alike, by providing the highest quality plants and information to make their gardening projects rewarding and successful.
Plant Cold Temperature Tolerance Lows to 35-40
Lows to 45
Lows to 55
Flowers/Vegetables
Flowers/Vegetables
Flowers/Vegetables
Dianthus Pansies Snapdragons Sweet Pea Violas --------Broccoli Brussel Sprouts Cabbage Cauliflower Kohlrabi Leeks Onions Parsnips Pea Potatoes
Calla Lily Fuchsia Geranium Lobelia Osteospermum Petunias --------Carrot Celery Chinese Cabbage Endive Kale Lettuce Radish Swiss Chard Turnips
Bacopa Dusty Miller Million Bells ---------
Beet Corn Pumpkin
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