Where do people stand on taking houseplants outside in the summer? I have a few that I do that with and they absolutely thrive. It’s almost like they hold on in the fall and winter just to go outside again. But is it too much change? My husband also thinks they bring in bugs but I don’t think there’s any evidence of that. Thoughts?
I think it’s like getting a tan. You want to gradually acclimate them outside like for 10 minutes one day, 20 minutes next, 30 minutes the next day so on and so forth to build up heat tolerance. It can definitely bring in pests, but then that’s a great excuse to buy yourself a Cape sundew plant.
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😄 And what does a Cape sundew do exactly?
0 likes It’s a carnivorous plant that can eat little gnats.
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I put about half of my plants outside for the summer. Some need to go out and do best outside. If it is more expensive or delicate, I keep these inside. I treat for pests for a couple weeks before, give a good bath the day moving back, then keep an eye on them. I have had minimal problems.
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I agree with oleander mom. Some plants are amazing at going outside and others just cuz problems. It just depends on the plant. If pests are a concern just make sure you treat them accordingly a few days ahead of move in day and then give them a good shower on move in day and no pests. Problem solved.
3 likes I will add I always treat mine for pests before I move them back indoors with both a systemic powder, a leaf spray, and a good shower. Usually not in that order. The order I actually use is systemic, then a good shower, and the day of move in a good solid sexy plant spray mix.
4 likesI don’t think it’s bad just don’t forget to bring them back in I know a few people who forget and then it gets cold and they lose all their plants. We live in Michigan it can be hot one day and frost that night 🤷🏻♀️
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I've taken mine out to our covered porch last summer. They did thrive and love it. However unfortunately your husband is correct they did come back with many friends in the fall. It wasn't worth the hassle so they are staying indoors this year.
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i live in FL so only some of my collection will actually survive outside LOL but i think if you can do it you should. real sun will always be better than a window or a grow light. they can tell the difference!
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Lmao same, I had to leave my umbrella open for 2 weeks to acclimate an outdoor plant to my back patio. One day my gourds will make me a natural umbrella and I’ll be able to put plants out in real sunlight without them burning
1 likeI have some plants that I consider outdoor plants that basically just “survive” winters indoors. My goal is just to keep it alive with a grow light and then get it back outside when it’s warm enough. I keep the rest indoors as I’m too worried they will pout too much when they come back indoors, so I’d rather keep them in place where they’re settled.
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