Moving Indoor Plants Outside

Ensuring a Healthy Transition

So now that warmer weather is here, all those plants you been tenderly caring for over the winter can now be moved back out onto the deck or porch, or even planted outside in containers again. Well before you just take them outside, consider this…

There are many things to consider before this transition from the warm and sunny windowsill to the outdoor area.

Light

Once outside, receiving too much sunlight in too short of a time can and often does result in “plant shock”Too much light provided too quickly can result in severe plant shock. Gradually ease the plants into receiving more and more direct sunlight by gradually increasing the time outside over a span of ten to fourteen days.

Try placing your plants in a shaded area of your yard for a few hours each day; allowing the plants to receive a greater amount of sunshine each day. Over a span of two weeks they should be fine.

Bergen County, NJ Weather Conditions

Keep your plants out of brisk windy conditions until they are well established outdoors. Also beware of your plants being bombarded during a heavy rain.

Pests

Apart from the odd hungry mite, New Jersey houseplants are often safe from many of the pests that plague gardens annually. Once you transition plants to a new outdoor environment, however, you will likely have to deal with damaging insects from time to time. Keep on the lookout for any wilting, discoloration, or holes in the leaf tissue.

Bergen County, NJ Temperatures

Although you may be chomping at the bit to move your houseplants outside and get started on your spring gardening regimen, your plants may not share your enthusiasm. Remember: your houseplants have spent the last several months warm and cozy indoors and will need time to adjust to cooler temperatures. Since many houseplants derive from tropical locations, they cannot thrive in temperatures below 55 degrees F. For optimal plant health, postpone your transition date until night temperatures reach the 55 degree benchmark.

Watering and Feeding

Outdoor plants generally require higher levels of water and nutrients than those living indoors. It is important that you provide additional resources as required. Monitor indoor-to-outdoor plants daily, and if the soil feels soaked or dry to the touch, adjust moisture levels accordingly. Be careful not to overdo it. Too much water and fertilizer can cause just as much harm as too little.

Over time, your plants will learn to love their new outdoor home. Simply make the adjustment period comfortable and you will reap the rewards with beautiful, lush plants this growing season.