Lantanas originally hail from the lush, tropical regions of Central America, so it’s no surprise they aren’t exactly fans of chilly weather. In most parts of the U.S., these beauties need to head indoors for a cozy winter nap. But once spring rolls around, every gardener starts asking the same thing: “When is it safe to move my Lantana back outside?”
Keep an Eye on Those Temps
When it comes to plants that aren’t cold-hardy, some are tougher than others. Unfortunately, Lantanas are on the sensitive side. Once temperatures dip below 40°F (5°C) in the fall, they start to struggle. This means they need to move inside pretty early in the season. By that same logic, you’ll want to be extra patient in the spring before letting them back out onto your patio or balcony.
Wait for the Last Frost
The biggest rule of thumb? Avoid night frost at all costs. Frost can sneak up on us well into the spring, and even a light freeze can do serious damage. For most gardeners, it’s best to wait until after the “last frost date” for your specific region—usually mid to late May. By then, nights are generally safe and frost-free. Of course, if you live in a particularly mild climate (like a coastal area or a southern wine region), you might be able to get away with moving your pots outside a little earlier.
Getting Your Plants Ready for the Move
To help your Lantana wake up from its winter slumber, you’ll want to start prepping it in late April. Gradually increase your watering and start fertilizing again. While the plant is still indoors, half the recommended dose of fertilizer is usually plenty. This is also the perfect time for a good pruning. Here’s why a spring trim is a great idea:
- Lantanas only grow flowers on new wood (fresh shoots).
- You can use those trimmings as cuttings for propagation.
- If you’re trying to train your Lantana into a standard (tree form), you’ll need to start clearing away those side shoots early on.
