Moving Your Houseplants Inside for the Winter: Tips for a Happy Transition

As summer draws to a close and temperatures start to drop, it's time to bring your beloved houseplants back indoors. This should be done with care for two main reasons: 1) so your plants aren’t shocked by the change in environment and 2) so they don’t bring pests inside to your other plants.  By following these steps, you can keep your plant collection thriving and pest-free!

When to move plants inside

Most houseplants are native to tropical rainforests, so they do not appreciate chilly temperatures. Generally, once nighttime temperatures reach around 45 or 50 degrees, it’s time to bring your houseplants inside. Some plants can handle colder temps, but be sure to research your plant types before pushing it. But first…

Acclimate plants to lower light

Your houseplants have been living their best life outside! They have grown to love the brighter outdoor light and might be a bit disgruntled when they return to the lower light levels the indoors offers. To ease this transition, about a week before bringing them inside, move your plants to a fully shaded area in your yard or on your balcony. This gradual adjustment helps them acclimate smoothly.

Clean up the plants

Before moving your plants indoors, take a moment to tidy them up. Remove any damaged leaves and if your plant is small enough, submerge it in a bucket of lukewarm, soapy water (just a splash of mild dish soap will do). For larger plants, gently spray them with a hose to wash away dust and potential pests, making sure to spray both the tops and undersides of the leaves. This is also a great opportunity to clean your plants’ leaves with soapy water or a gentle product like Rosie’s Plant Care. If using a neem oil based product, just be sure to keep the plant out of direct sun while the spray dries.

Check for Pests

Carefully inspect each plant for pests. Pay close attention to the undersides of the leaves and the junctions where leaves meet the stems. If you spot any bugs, treat them accordingly before bringing them inside.

Isolate from Your Other Plants

Once inside, isolate your outdoor plants in a bright bathroom or other area away from your other plants. Monitor them for a few weeks to ensure they are pest-free. Keeping them in a well-lit spot will help them adjust to the lower indoor light levels before you move them to their permanent locations.

If you’re particularly concerned about pests, consider using systemic houseplant granules like Bonide Systemic Houseplant Insect Control, available at Rooted Living. While effective against unwanted bugs, it’s worth noting that it will also eliminate beneficial insects, so use judiciously. For a more targeted approach, you can apply Captain Jack’s Deadbug spray or a horticultural soap spray to the leaves (both tops and bottoms), stems, and soil surface.

By taking these steps, you can ensure your plants transition smoothly back indoors, remaining healthy and vibrant throughout the colder months!