Fuchsias are popular flowering plants for hanging baskets. While they are not cold hardy, fuchsias don't have to be discarded in the fall. They can be overwintered indoors. Before the first frost, bring the plants indoors and place them in a cool (40 to 50°F), dimly lit location, such as a basement or porch. In fall and winter, water the plants sparingly (about once every 3 or 4 weeks). Remove the fuchsias from their overwintering site in March. Severely prune back the plants, water them well, and then place the fuchsias under artificial lighting or in an east or west window. Water the plants on a regular basis during the remainder of their stay indoors. Once every 2 weeks, water the plants with a dilute fertilizer solution. The fuchsias can be moved outdoors when the danger of frost is past in May. Initially, place the plants in a shady, protected location outdoors. The plants should acclimate to their outdoor environment in a few days.
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