When Are My Houseplants Safe To Return Outside?

Houseplants are safe to be placed outside when nighttime temperatures consistently exceed 50°F (10°C). However, it is crucial to consider the specific needs of each plant, as some may require higher temperatures. Houseplants enjoy the fresh air of spring after a long winter, but it is important not to move them too early. The best time to move houseplants outdoors is between late May and September, taking time and doing it slowly to ensure they survive the move and enjoy a good summer before returning indoors for winter.

To acclimate your plants, start by placing them in a shady area outside for an hour or two on the first day, gradually increasing the time spent outdoors over the next 7-10 days. Most plants can receive direct sun in the sun. When nighttime temperatures drop below 10°F (50°F), it is time to bring the plants back indoors. In Iowa, this usually occurs in the first week of June.

Removing houseplants outside during the summer growing season is best, but it is best to wait until nighttime temperatures stay at or above 60°F. If possible, move the plants into a cool room initially until they have re-acclimatized to indoor conditions. Renew houseplants with a summer outdoors only after night temperatures remain above 60°F (usually mid-May or early June). Most house plants should be placed outside between May and September, but timings vary around the country and from year to year.

When can I put my monstera outside?

Monsteras, native to tropical forests of Central America, prefer temperatures above 40 degrees Fahrenheit / 4 degrees Celsius. They can withstand high heat and humidity as long as they are not in direct sunlight. To bring your Monstera indoors, start planning for late fall and monitor overnight temperatures to avoid frost or cold. Before bringing your plant indoors, thoroughly scout for pests by wiping down leaves and stems, examining the soil, and bringing the plant into a quarantined holding area to ensure all signs of pests have been cleared. This will help ensure a healthy and happy Monstera plant.

When can I put my indoor plants outside?

Indoor plants should be shipped outside during the first signs of spring, ensuring nighttime temperatures stay above 60°F and any frost threat has passed. Use the average last frost date for your area as a guide and pay attention to the weather forecast. If a late-season cold snap approaches, bring the plants back indoors, keeping them isolated from any plants that stay inside permanently.

Take it slow by placing indoor plants outside for a few hours per day, then work your way up to a 24-hour period. Place them in a spot that protects them from strong winds, heavy rain, and direct sun.

To prevent scorching of leaves, start them in heavy shade for several days, then move them into dappled shade for a few more days. Finally, place them in their preferred lighting.

Which houseplants like to go outside in summer?

Succulents and cacti are ideal for adding color to your patio and garden decor during the summer. They thrive in direct sun and can be used as centerpieces for outdoor dining tables and patio sets. If placed in direct sun, water them daily as the heat evaporates moisture in their small pots. Spider plants, air purifying plants, can live outdoors for the summer and have a significant growth spurt, resulting in baby plants sprouting from their long stems.

These plants can be planted in their own pots, filling your patio with lush greenery. The rubber plant, a hardy breed of ficus, can thrive outdoors during the summer and is particularly well-suited for outdoor use. If the plant shows signs of being rootbound, repot it into a larger container at the start of the season to accommodate its new growth.

Can I put my palm plant outside in the summer?

Winter protection is crucial for indoor palms that move outside for summer. Once nighttime temperatures fall near 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit, bring them back indoors for winter. In spring, wait until frost passes before moving them back outdoors. If your landscape palms are borderline for winter hardiness, they may need extra protection. Consult your local county extension agent for information on expected frost dates and successful winterization methods.

Choose palms with growing goals in mind and match their needs with proper care and nutrition to enjoy their breezy beauty all year round. Pennington offers specialty fertilizers and expert tips for creating indoor and outdoor gardens.

Is it too early to plant outside?

Annuals, perennials, and bulbs have varying levels of hardiness, requiring different amounts of sunlight and warmth for optimal growth. Hardiest flowers can be planted as soon as the soil can be worked, while half-hardy flowers should be planted a couple weeks before the final frost. Tender flowers should be planted when there is no frost for the rest of the season. Vegetables have different hardiness levels and thrive in different conditions. Cold-hardy vegetables like spinach and onions can be grown in cold early spring conditions, while others like beets, carrots, and potatoes should be planted later.

Warm-weather vegetables like squash, tomatoes, eggplant, and basil should be planted after freezing temperatures have passed. Seed packets for flowers and vegetables have instructions based on climate and frost dates.

When can I put plants in pots outside?

Planting containers depends on the type of plants: permanent plants should be planted in early spring, while tender summer-flowering plants should be planted in late May/early June. Containers are versatile and suitable for a wide range of plants, making them easy to brighten up small spaces and create focal points in larger areas. Large containers are best for creating striking displays and are easier to care for. They can grow bedding plants, vegetables, and even small trees. It is essential to have drainage holes in the base and water containers regularly in spring and summer.

Can I put indoor plants outside in the rain?

Houseplants are typically grown under rainforest canopy, but heavy rain or storms can damage delicate leaves and bend stems. It’s crucial to monitor weather conditions and pull plants indoors if necessary. Group plants tightly to prevent wind damage and reduce casualties. Prop them against a wall or hard surface for support. Limit the time plants are outside to 1-2 hours during the day, avoid significant temperature changes, and pull them in before the sun goes down. This will help prevent shock and ensure the plants are well-supported and protected from potential damage.

What temperature is too cold for Monstera?

Monstera Adansonii plants thrive in normal room temperatures between 60-80 degrees, but can be grown in low light conditions. They grow faster and more dramatic in indirect bright light, but avoid strong direct sunlight as it may burn the leaves. If you don’t have ideal lighting, use a Grow Light. Water your Monstera when the top 50-75 of the soil is dry, ensuring liquid flows through the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot.

For a special treat, gently mist it once a week using a Mister, ideally in the morning to allow water to evaporate before evening. This plant can grow in almost any environment, but it requires proper care and watering.

Does monstera like full sun?

Monstera plants thrive in bright indirect light, which is closest to dappled light in their native environments. A full day of bright indirect light is crucial for strong growth, ensuring the plant is stretching and releasing new leaves. Some species can handle medium light in the higher foot-candle range, but they won’t grow as quickly. Slow watering is necessary due to less water absorption and evaporation. If the sunlight isn’t too intense, give your monstera an hour or two of direct sunlight in the mornings.

Positioning your monstera in front of a right east-facing window can also provide a boost. Light positions and intensity change with the season, with winter having lower intensity than summer. In cooler months, monsteras can handle more direct sun to combat lower light levels on cloudy and chilly days.

Can you put artificial plants outside?

Plastic plants can be placed outside, but they should be considered for their environmental conditions. Plastic fauxliege is durable and weatherproof, making it suitable for unpredictable weather conditions. UV-resistant materials are recommended for outdoor use to minimize fading and deterioration. Silk plants, made from synthetic materials, can brighten any indoor space but should not be forced to stay outside. Both plastic and silk plants can be used for landscape decor in unpredictable weather conditions.

Can palm plants be in direct sunlight?

The application of direct sunlight can result in the burning of palm leaves, leading to the formation of curls or browning of the foliage. To avoid this phenomenon, it is recommended to place the palm in a location that receives partial sunlight or indirect illumination indoors.