Question
My girlfriend keeps saying we need to replant our Red Sun Parasol Mandevilla I think it's called in the ground outside. We live in Troy Mo. just outside St. Louis Mo. We have a very quick changing weather pattern in Mo. were it can be REAL COLD or REAL HOT all year long. I tell her we need to keep it outside in it's pot during the warm months but are going to need to bring it in during the colder months. Which of us is right and what is the best way to care for our beautiful plant?

Answer
Hi Brandon,

Mandevilla is a tropical plant that cannot withstand temps below 50 degrees, so you definitely cannot put it in the ground in the St Louis area. On the other hand, it does require lots of good light. If outside in summer, it should be in light shade. Indoors it must be on your sunniest window sill.

This is not an easy plant to care for and get to flower regularly. I suggest you go to the link below to learn more about caring for it

http://www.sunparasol.net/html/pdfs/Growertalks.pdf

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

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Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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