Fresh Air for Houseplants
Spring is a period when we can finally move some of those indoor plants to the outside. It’s feels great for us but it also feels great for those plants as well. Many of the plant problems that we experience are simply due to our efforts to stimulate natural conditions in an unnnatural environment. By getting our plants outside they will receive natural plant watering and the benefit of the natural sunlight that they have been craving all winter long.
You shouldn’t rush in to moving your houseplants to the great outdoors. A decent chill can blow the leaves off tender plants. Monitor houseplants while spending the warm months outside. If leaves are being wind damaged, then move plants to calmer spots. If pots dry out too rapidly, you should move plants into some protection from shade or wind, or even repot if desired. Inspect your houseplants for indications of insect damage. Pest control is much safer and easier while the plants are outside for the summer season, than after you bring them in during the autum.
As with moving houseplants to the outside, they should be permitted to make a slow transition to the indoor conditions. Rapid changes in environment can result in leaf drop and yellow foliage. To prevent injury, it’s wise to bring plants indoors before temperatures go below 55° F; you should not wait for frost warnings. Check for insect pests before you transport the plants, because it is easier to dispose of pests while plants are still outside. Wash the plants’ leaves, and soak pots in water for about 15 to 20 minutes to saturate most soil-dwelling pests.