Bringing Houseplants Outdoors: Enhancing Your Patio with Greenery
When the sun is shining and the weather is pleasant, it’s tempting to take your indoor plants outside to enjoy some fresh air and elevate your patio decor. However, it’s essential to take precautions to ensure they don’t become too warm or dry.
Here are some things to consider and watch out for when transitioning your indoor plants outdoors:
Temperature: The optimal time to expose your houseplants to summer weather is when nighttime temperatures consistently remain above 55 degrees Fahrenheit (typically from May to September). Additionally, it’s best if daytime temperatures don’t exceed 90 degrees. Monitoring daily temperatures is crucial for keeping your plants healthy and happy.
Humidity: The ambient humidity in your area will determine which plants can thrive outdoors. Tropical plants and foliage require higher humidity levels, so if you live in a dry climate, it’s best to avoid taking them outside. On the other hand, succulents thrive in arid conditions and will flourish in dry climates.
Light: While sunlight may seem beneficial, it’s advisable to place your indoor plants in shaded areas outdoors to avoid direct sunlight. Even shaded outdoor locations receive more intense light than indoor settings, which can be harmful to indoor plants.
Water: Warmer temperatures and lower humidity levels mean plants will need more water to stay hydrated. Succulents may require watering every other day in hot conditions, while foliage plants should be watered when the top inch or two of soil has dried out. Monitor your plants daily and look out for signs of under watering, such as wilted leaves and dry soil.
Pests: Outdoor environments harbor various pests, including aphids, caterpillars, and mealy bugs, which can damage your plants. Keep an eye out for any signs of infestation and treat small outbreaks with rubbing alcohol and mild soap.
Inclement Weather: While light rain can benefit your plants, heavy rainstorms and strong winds can cause damage. Be prepared to protect your plants during severe weather conditions.
Summer weather generally creates a favorable environment for houseplants, but some may enjoy outdoor time more than others. Here are a few plants that thrive in shady spots on your patio:
Succulents: These desert natives can handle dry heat and some direct sunlight, but be cautious of overexposure.
Snake Plant: Known for its resilience to drought, snake plants add height to outdoor planters and require minimal maintenance.
ZZ Plant: Originating from Africa, ZZ plants have similar watering needs to succulents and can tolerate outdoor conditions with adequate shade.
Spider Plant: Adaptable to various environments, spider plants produce cascading spiderettes and look stunning in hanging baskets.
Alocasia: Thriving in high humidity, Alocasia plants should be shielded from direct sunlight and placed in shady areas to enhance your outdoor decor.
Pothos: These hardy plants feature trailing vines and thrive in brighter light, making them perfect for outdoor spaces with indirect sunlight.
Before exposing your plants to outdoor conditions, gradually acclimate them to the new environment to prevent shock. Similarly, if you choose to keep your plants indoors during the summer, protect them from cold drafts from air conditioners, which can dehydrate them and cause wilting.
