Question
Dear Plant Man,

I have a 14" Arboricola on my balcony, where I hope to leave it for most of the winter except for the few nights temperatures are forecasted to fall below freezing. Tonight is the first of those nights (forecasted temperature is 27F), however, for complicated reasons, I am unable to bring the plant indoors. Can you advise how best to protect my lovely Scheff from this unseasonably horrid weather. (Yes, I am a wimp!)

Best regards,
Samantha


Answer
Hi Samantha,

I'm a wimp too because I don't like temps much below 50F!

Arboricolas will tolerate a light frost down to just below freezing, but I am afraid you are pushing the limit with 27 degrees. Perhaps you could wrap the outside of the pot with bubble wrap or some other insulation. You may lose some of the exposed foliage, but it is more important to protect the roots from freezing.

What will you do when it gets even colder in December and January?

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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