Question
Dear Richard, I have just bought two plants: Salvia Microphylla bleu and Angelonia angel mist purple stripe, for my garden in sunny south west france. (sunny but it can get pretty cold in winter - minus 10 degrees C is possible for night time temperatures during a couple of weeks).  My question is, can I put these plants in the garden (a sunny spot for summer but it would not be a sheltered spot in winter) or should I plant them in pots and bring them indoor for the cold period?  Or could they be sheltered in the soil, and if so what would you recommend.   I look forward to hearing from you.  With best wishes from the Dordogne, Judy

Answer
i'm in southern NJ, USA.
both of these plants are considered annuals where winter weather is 30 degrees F or less(definitely annuals in NJ). (? < 10 degrees C = F). the 1st frost will cause their demise. they could be protected by covering them w/a plastic shield overnite. if the day time temps are above 40 degrees F you can uncover them during the day. if below 40 degree temps only last a week or 2 you might be able to get away w/covering them only. certain annuals don't overwinter too well in containers indoors. salvia would not be a good choice for this. i'm not sure on angelonia? i would think it would be best to leave them outside and just replace them w/new plants each spring. you could grow the salvia easily by seed and then transplant the seedlings outside after they develop sufficiently. angelonia does not reproduce well from seed. check w/a local garden center/nursery to see what they think in your area. sorry i couldn't be of more help.
good luck
rick