Gardening advice for late October and indoor plant care

As the gardening season transitions in late October, experts advise against planting certain species to avoid damage from frost and wet soil. Dahlia tubers should be planted in the spring to prevent rot and tissue destruction caused by freezing. While Echinacea, or coneflowers, are often considered hardy, some newer hybrids may be vulnerable to frost or rot in heavy, wet soil if planted too late in the season. Instead, gardeners may consider planting narcissus bulbs for spring color or Heuchera for winter foliage.

For indoor plants like the poinsettia, common issues include temperature fluctuations and improper watering. Poinsettias thrive in temperatures between 15 and 22 degrees Celsius, and exposure to temperatures below 12 degrees can cause leaf loss. Additionally, standing water at the bottom of pots can damage roots; it is recommended to water only when the top layer of soil feels dry.