Overwintering Salvia and Angelonia in Cold Climates

In regions where winter nights drop below freezing (Zone 8 or colder), Salvia microphylla and Angelonia are grown as annuals. They cannot survive outdoors unprotected. Options:

• Treat as annuals: Replace each spring. Salvia grows easily from seed; start indoors 8–10 weeks before last frost. Angelonia is difficult from seed; buy plants.
• Overwinter in pots: Move containers to a bright, cool (40–50°F) indoor space. Salvia often struggles indoors; Angelonia may fare better. Water sparingly, no fertilizer.
• Protect in ground: If frost is brief (1–2 weeks), cover plants nightly with frost cloth, uncovering when daytime temps exceed 40°F. This is risky for extended freezes.

Consult a local nursery for varieties with better cold tolerance. In southwestern France (Zone 8b), treating them as annuals is most reliable.