Question
I purchased a hardy plant of the month club.  Since my first plant arrives soon, January and I'm in zone 6, how should I care for it since it's very cold outside?
Thank you

Answer
Hi Diane,

From what I see on the Weather Channel, you are having daytime temperatures in the 40's and 50's and nights in the 20's and 30's depending on how clear it is.  That is exactly the temperatures your plant coming to you (Sarracenia x Daina's Delight) has been experiencing here in Oregon.  Just put it outside in a tray of water.  If you think it's going to be below 25, then just cover it or bring it in an unheated garage or shed overnight.  Brief freezes are of little concern.  If you get a very cold weather system (temps. in the teens or colder) coming through then definitely bring it into a garage or other shelter, but not a warm house.

These precautions are not because of the type of plant it is, but because it's in a 3" pot.  Many plants normally very hardy can have a hard time in tiny pots.  Later this spring, as you acquire more plants, transplanting them to larger pots will help with this, and make them much tougher for future winters.

Be sure and watch the DVD that comes with your club.  We go into these topics in detail along with showing you how to mix soil, transplant, etc...  This will give you the "CP 101" course to help you avoid some of the pitfalls so common to new growers.

Good Growing!

Jeff Dallas
Sarracenia Northwest
http://www.cobraplant.com