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Joined: Aug 2007
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I read somewhere that castor beans are considered perennial in places like Florida, etc so I got the brilliant idea ideato bring in my 1 potted castor bean and see what happens. Problem is I have no idea what to do with it now that I have it inside? whyLight/dark? Fertilize or not? prune or not? etc.
Please help!!

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Purl One
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I've never overwintered mine here in NY, but did you know that that plant is highly toxic? Especially the seeds - they used to use them in warfare years and years ago. Just wanted to let you know in case you have any chewing babies or pets.


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California Queen
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For years they were actually banned in California. The seeds are too colorful and attractive to kids. To me they are a weed to get rid of. I have no idea how to winter them.


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Well no chewing babies - 2 or 4 legged to worry about. I had my outdoor plants grow to 8ft the last 2 years and the stalks are like tree saplings so I am thrilled with them and wanted to try them inside. (Of course the potted one did not grow that tall.)

Thanks anyway, No worries, I guess I will just see what happens to it - I saved lots of seeds to plant again next season.

seeds are put away out of sight of any curious little visitors I may have between now and then though!

Jiffymouse
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make sure that the plant is too. here, they grow, but die back each winter and come back each year. and 8ft is about right for outside.

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Hi Jiffymouse,
So do you think I should cut the plant back now? or wait for spring? or just leave it be? It has new shoots coming all up along the stalks and I had already cut the seed stalks off the top before I brought it in. I am actually just enjoying the plant inside. I have never had any luck with indoor plants. I take cuttings from my impatiens, coleus, and geraniums for planting outdoors the following season but this is the first time I will try to nurture an actual plant overwinter!

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back at the farm I planted them at the edge of my garden to keep the moles
out of the garden. That worked well for me. Then I harvested the seeds & let the plant die---then in the spring started the process all over again.




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