The tote is a good idea for root crops such as storing carrots, onions and potatoes but not for storing living plants. The basement is a much better idea. Just make sure the plants in your pots get to experience cold weather and drop some leaves before you move them into the basement. Then do not water very often. Maybe once a month or less to keep the plants from shriveling. You want them to go dormant. Overwintering works for some perennials and shrubs but not all. Annuals live a short time no matter what you do. Not all plants need to experience winter. Some such as coleus, geraniums and tropical plants can be grown as houseplants over the winter. Good luck and may your spring be full of your living basement plants. Keep growing, Marianne Binetti