| A. In the ground, plants have the
protection and the warmth of the soil, so even if the tops freeze
back, the roots may be safe. Plants in containers don’t have
this advantage. Many container plants, including those roses you
never got around to planting, will be fine if you can put them up
against the house. Mulch them well, and don’t over water or
let go completely dry (especially if a freeze is expected). The
producer has great luck with this routine, even with bougainvilleas,
by harboring them on the patio and covering them with old blankets
and towels.
For tropicals you don’t want to risk, put them in a shed
or garage or in the house. The inadequate light will cause leaf
shed, but the plants will recover in the spring. Be careful about
overwatering—let the plants go dormant. If you can bring them
inside, take time now to inspect them for whiteflies or other insects.
Remember that the light indoors, as bright as it is to your eyes,
is not sufficient for the plants. Give them the brightest spot you
can, but expect them to lose their leaves. Ficus will definitely
drop leaves, but it’ll get over it.
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|  Desert
Willow (‘Regal’ & ‘Bubba’)
Desert Willow is a shrub/tree that adds a distinct Western flair
to the landscape. The fine, strappy foliage casts a very light shade
which means you can underplant this ornamental with other sun loving
plants.
Once established it is very drought tolerant and not very attractive
to foraging deer. Trumpet shaped, light pink blooms which are lightly
fragrant appear in waves from late spring to fall.
Two attractive selection with burgundy blooms are ‘Regal’
and ‘Bubba’. Desert Willow is easy to grow if you provide
it a sunny exposure and well drained soil. Remember, fall is prime
time for planting trees and shrubs!
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