BellaOnline Forums Home and Garden Houseplants Frostbit houseplant

A houseplant of my mother's was left out the other night by accident. She didn't see it and the temperature dropped to 24 degrees. When she brought it in, its leaves where hanging and most of them were grayed. She feels so stupid but she couldn't tell me what type of plant it is! She has so many plants that she can't keep track of them all! Is there a way to help any houseplant from a frostbite or will it die all together? It's been kept indoors obviously and she hasn't touched it as far as watering it goes. I read on one website that said to cut off the limbs and if the plant is healthy enough, it will grow back quickly but I'm afraid of that. Has anyone ever had this problem and if so, what have you done yourself? I would really appreciate any help you can give! Thanks so much! cherryblossom

I'd cut it back and hope for the best. The limp leaves will die but some plants may regrow from the roots or lower branches. Other more tender types will not. The trouble is, most house plants are tropicals and a hard freeze is more than they can take.

Thank you so much! I'll let her know. I hope it works out for her. She's had so many plants over the years. Today, it snowed once more. Two weeks ago, it was in the 80's! I'm in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan (past Mackinac Bridge) and this is what spring is like for us! LOL Anyway, thanks again. I'll let you know how things work out!