The first cold night of the year in the desert

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It's November 11th and last night was the first really cold night of the year here in The Sonoran Desert, the Phoenix, Arizona area. The temperature right now, as I write this at 8 am, is about 40 F (5 C). And it's something that surprises a lot of people who live here, that the temperature falls so fast at this time of year. It was just a few weeks ago that I was able to keep the windows open and not have the air conditioning kick in. I switched over to heat last night.

The good news at this time of year is that the cold is only in the early mornings. In fact, if you sleep in until ten, you would be surprised to hear someone mention how cold it was. The sun warms up the desert very quickly, which is harsh in the summer but gorgeous in the winter. This is the "Chamber of Commerce Weather" that I have always talked about.

As for your plants, well, there's nothing to worry about. Most plants, except the most tender tropicals, can get through freezing weather without much damage. You will see some "frost burn" on the tips of your Elephant Ears, but you can remove the leaf and the plant will be fine. Your palms and cycads, of course will be fine going through even much colder weather than this. And of course, your annuals, like petunias, pansies, etc., love this kinds of weather.

So, if you're an early riser like me, the best thing to do is to just give the day an hour or two. It's cold now, but by mid-day it will be beautiful!

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