Question
We live in New Orleans La, and have decided to go tropical with all landscaping,most of which is in plcebut I have 2 "spots" to fill. The one gets sun all day, Iwas thinking of a hawaiian ti plant, the other is next to a brick wall up our walkway and only gets sun til around noon, I was thinking mandevilla for that one. I want to plant these in ground, how well would they winter? What elsewould you suggest. Thank YOU!!!

Randa


Answer
Hi Randa, well they are both tropical by nature for sure, and a winter had freeze would do them in; I'm not sure of your climate zone, they would need to be in at least a 8b to survive the winter intact, otherwise you would have to pull them and winter them over inside your house, which can sometimes be a logistical nightmare. The Mandevilla needs a trellis or some type of structure to climb and cling too; the Ti will do fine in the sun, albeit will give better, deeper color in a dappled shady area out of the wind; but as I said, both do need winter freeze protection. I am going to suggest you visit your local county Cooperative Extension Service and get advice on what you can grow in your particular area; look up the Master Gardners there and they will give you a plethora of info on this...Nick:)