Question
Hi Jacob and Jeff

Normally by this time of year I would be putting my outdoor temperate plants to bed for the winter.... however the weather this year has been strange.

We have had a few frosts already, and certainly some days in the 40s., but then we have also had days like today when the nighttime temp was about 50 and the daytime temps nearly reached 60.

We have not yet had the traditional 3 nights of frost and steady daytime temps in the 40's. So ... are they dormant yet ?? can I mulch or should I wait a little longer?

You guys are the best.

Thanks
Nicole
90 miles north of NYC  

Answer
Hi Nicole,

Plants respond to both temperature and photoperiod to induce dormancy.  By now the days are very short, so your plants would be dormant.  I would leave them uncovered for a bit longer, or until it looks like you are going to get some very cold weather just to help them build their cold tolerance.  Do get them mulched, however, if it looks like an Arctic front is coming your way.

Good Growing!

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