Fuschias need frost-free sanctuary over winter

Q My hanging basket fuchsias are still looking good, but as the weather cools I’m wondering how to store and preserve them over the winter and how to start them successfully back into growth at winter’s end.

A One or two light frosts will not usually harm hanging basket fuchsias, but to be sure of the plants’ survival, it is a good idea to place tender fuchsias in shelter at about the time of the first fall frosts.

First, trim and clean the plants. Cut back long branches enough for convenient handling and storage. Remove dead and spindly shoots and clear debris away from the top of the soil.

The containers can then be stored in a cool but frost-free place for the winter. The location might be an unheated basement room, attic or garage. Monitor the plants for moisture. Don’t let them dry out.

In late February or early March, lift the fuchsias and repot them. At that time, prune the stems back hard, so that no stem extends beyond the container edge.

Water lightly, place the plants in a cool, bright location, mist them occasionally and pinch out the tips of new shoots to form a bushy plant with many stems to carry flowers. Q What hardy flower bulbs are the best ones for extending the season of bloom, hopefully through May?

A Choose from among the late tulips: Single Late, Double Late, Fringed, Lily Flowered, Parrot and Green. Green (viridiflora) varieties are usually the very last to flower. Dutch irises also help to extend the spring flower bulb season into late May and early June.