Knowledgebase

What temperature is too low for begonias/petunias #866934

Asked May 03, 2024, 4:21 PM EDT

I bought hanging baskets - dragon wing begonias, petunia, geraniums, bacota. The temperature tonight may get as low as 43 degrees for an hour. Do I need to cover them or put them in the garage? What is the lowest temperature I can feel safe to leave them outside?

Dakota County Minnesota

Expert Response

Good Morning, 

Thank you for contacting the U of M Extension Service. 

Begonias are tender plants. Based on our location, the average frost date is around May 20th.  Your plants will be damaged at temperatures around freezing. Here is a link from the U of M Extension Yard and Garden website: https://extension.umn.edu/flowers/begonia

If you plan to leave your plants outside, you should monitor the night time temperatures for possible frost until late May.  Eventhough the temperature does not reach freezing, the cold temperatures can be hard on the plant's survival. 

Good Luck!

Maureen Graber Replied May 04, 2024, 8:50 AM EDT

Loading ...