Don't Bring Daisies and Violets Indoors for Winter—They Need Dormancy

In southern New Hampshire (Zone 5), daisies and violets are hardy perennials that require winter dormancy. Bringing them inside as houseplants disrupts their cycle and weakens them for next year.

Why Dormancy Matters

• Cold exposure triggers hormonal changes for spring flowering.
• Reduced light and temperature slow metabolism, conserving energy.
• Without rest, plants exhaust reserves and decline.

What to Do Instead

• Leave them in the ground. Mulch 2–3″ after freeze.
• If in pots, sink pots in soil or move to unheated garage (30–40°F).
• Water once a month if dry.

Winter Joy: Grow Orchids

For indoor blooms, try winter-blooming orchids (Phalaenopsis, Cattleya). They love the conditions we provide and flower January–February.

Let perennials sleep. They'll wake up ready to shine.