Question
I have a hydrangea that I pulled out of the trash last spring.  I repotted it and set it out under a tree.  It now has many lush leaves.  My question is: What do I do with it during the winter?  I live in Metro Atlanta, in an apartment.  The winters can get cold (high teens) Thanks for your help

Answer
Hi Phillis,
Thanx for your question.  The type of hydrangea you describe is most likely a florist-grade type of hydrangea.  Generally, they aren't hardy in zones colder than USDA Zone 9.  At best, you're in 7 or 8.  Bring the hydrangea indoors when temperatures consistently fall below 50 F until next spring.  Just keep it in a sunny window, watering it once a week and do not feed it.  It will go into a semi-dormancy for the winter and may look a little haggard.  Eventually, when spring comes, put it outdoors after there is no danger of frost and temperatures are consistently above 50F.  Make sure you shelter it from direct sunlight for about 7 - 10 days so it can get used to being outdoors again.  Keep the soil moist and begin feeding it an acid fertilizer like Miracid and the plant should do nicely.  In your hot, humid summers, you may need to water potted plants twice a day.  I hope this helps.
Tom