PLANTOGRAM FALL GROWING GUIDE
Don't Wait for Frost
When to Bring Your Tropical Fruit Tree Indoors
A beautiful fall afternoon can hide a surprisingly cold night. If you're growing mango, avocado or another tropical fruit tree in a container, now is the time to start watching the thermometer.
THE NUMBER TO START WATCHING
Fifty degrees is not a universal danger temperature for every fruit tree. Think of it as your fall planning reminder: identify your variety, understand its cold tolerance and prepare before a cold night becomes an emergency.
BEFORE IT COMES INSIDE
The 5-Step Fall Check
for pests
leaves & pot
new arrivals
bright location
watering
Fall Changes the Rules
Autumn can be deceptive. It might feel beautiful outside during the afternoon, only for temperatures to drop dramatically after sunset. Your tropical fruit tree experiences both.
That matters particularly for tropical plants such as mango. Young trees are generally more vulnerable to cold than established trees, which is one reason container growing can be so useful in cooler climates.
If your tree can be moved, you don't have to wait until frost is in the forecast. You can prepare its winter location while conditions are still comfortable.
PlantOGram Tip: Cold tolerance tells you what a plant may survive. Good growing asks what will help it thrive.
GuaMango is a semi-dwarf grafted mango variety that can be container grown.
First: Check Under the Leaves
Your tree may not be coming inside alone.
Outdoor container plants can harbor spider mites, aphids, scale, mealybugs and other tiny hitchhikers. Before moving the plant inside, inspect both sides of the leaves, tender new growth, stems, trunk, soil surface and drainage holes.
Give It a Good Rinse
Rinse the foliage thoroughly and clean the outside and underside of the container. Pay particular attention to leaf undersides. Then keep the returning plant separated from established indoor plants while you continue watching for pests.
RETHINK THE CONTAINER
A Container Is a Climate-Control Tool
During warm months, a container-grown fruit tree can enjoy outdoor sunlight, warmth, rainfall and airflow. When the season changes, the container allows you to change the tree's environment too.
For gardeners outside traditional tropical climates, that flexibility can completely change what is possible to grow.
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Containers give tropical fruit trees more flexibility as the seasons change.
Growing Indoors Works Differently
A room that looks bright to us can still be dramatically darker than an outdoor patio. Once your tree moves inside, give it the brightest appropriate location available. Some plants may benefit from supplemental grow lighting when natural winter light is limited.
Stop Watering Like It's August
Indoor winter conditions can reduce how quickly a container dries. Don't water simply because Tuesday is watering day. Check the soil and observe the plant.
Light, humidity, temperature, airflow and water use all change indoors. A little adjustment is normal while the plant acclimates.
TREES TO EXPLORE
Fruit Trees for Seasonal Growing
GuaMango
A semi-dwarf grafted mango grown in a 3-gallon container. PlantOGram notes that this variety can be kept indoors.
VIEW GUAMANGO →
Fantastic Avocado
A grafted avocado selection offered for its cold hardiness, lush foliage and creamy fruit.
VIEW FANTASTIC →QUICK ANSWERS
Fall Fruit Tree FAQ
When should I bring tropical plants indoors?
When nighttime temperatures begin approaching 50°F, start checking your particular plant's needs and preparing its winter location. Exact cold tolerance varies by species and variety.
Should I wait for frost before bringing my mango tree inside?
No. Mango is tropical, and young trees can be more vulnerable to cold than established trees. A movable container lets you protect the plant before potentially damaging cold arrives.
Why is my tree dropping leaves after coming indoors?
Indoor light, humidity, temperature and airflow are different. Some adjustment can occur after a move. Continue monitoring soil moisture, available light and pests.
Should I water less in winter?
Often, yes. Indoor conditions can reduce water use. Check the soil rather than automatically following the same watering schedule used outdoors during summer.
Keep Growing
FROM THE PLANTOGRAM JOURNAL
The Joy of Growing Mangoes at Home
Discover grafted mango varieties, container-growing ideas and what makes growing your own mango tree so rewarding.
READ THE MANGO GUIDE →GROW WHERE YOU LIVE
Grow Beyond Your Climate.
Discover fruit trees that can become part of your patio, garden and home through every season.
SHOP MANGO TREES →The Only Gift That Keeps on Giving.