Polka Dot Plants

Question

When can I safely plant polka dot plants in this gardening zone – 5b? Thank you.

Answer 1

Although this plant is a perennial, it is oftentimes grown as an annual bedding plant or potted houseplant instead, especially in cooler growing zones like yours. This plant cannot tolerate cool conditions and prefers temps of 60 degrees F. or more. For this reason, you may want to consider growing it in a container so that you can bring it back indoors for overwintering. But, if you would like to grow the plant as a garden annual instead, wait until the temps in your area reach and remain a consistent 50-55 degrees.