Can Indoor Plants Go Outside? (What You Need to Know)

There is this irresistible urge to take your houseplants outside, but can indoor plants go outside? The answer is yes. Taking them outside during summer will help improve their appearance and health.

However, remember that your leafy companions are accustomed to the indoor environment, so they might suffer if exposed to harsh conditions like bright and direct sunlight.

Indoor plants thrive well in bright, indirect sunlight and low light conditions. So, when taking them outside, try to give them the conditions they are used to before they gradually adopt the outside environment.

While taking your plants outside, you need to consider certain factors.

Factors to Consider Before Moving Your Indoor Plants Outside

Light Exposure

Light on the outside is often bright and direct, which might be too much for your indoor plant. Remember, most indoor plants do well in bright, indirect, or low-light conditions.

So, when introducing your plants to the outside, expose them gradually to prevent problems like sunburn. Most importantly, the outside light will significantly boost your plants’ health.

Watering

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High temperatures from the outside will cause water in your indoor plant to evaporate more, unlike indoors. Thus, you will need to frequently water your plant to replace the lost water.

However, avoid overwatering your plant to prevent water logging in the soil, which might cause root rot.

Temperature Fluctuations

Extreme heat outside can stress your indoor plant or cause it to dehydrate. So, ensure you place your plantain in a shady area.

Pests

Plants are more exposed to pests when outside, unlike when they are indoors. So, monitor your plants regularly for any signs of pests like aphids, and if you find any, address the issue immediately.

Acclimatization

Acclimatization is the process by which you introduce your plant to a new environment. So, suppose you are moving your indoor plant outside. In that case, the acclimatization process will involve introducing your plant to more light exposure, different humidity levels, and temperatures for some time.

This will help to prevent your plant from going into shock or stress, allowing it to adapt to the new environment.

Container

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Ensure the container that is going outside with your plant has drainage holes. This will enable excess water to escape, thus preventing waterlogging.

Furthermore, ensure the container is suitable for outdoor use, or rather, it does not overheat to prevent root damage.

Can Plants Go from Indoor to Outdoor?

Yes, you can move your indoor plant to the outdoors. However, it’s important to gradually acclimatize them to changes in temperature, light, and humidity. This way, you will prevent stressing and shocking your plant so it can adjust to its new environment.

Can You Use Indoor Plant Pots Outside?

Yes, you can use indoor plant pots outside, but you must consider certain factors like drainage and the material of the pot. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to drain excess water, especially during the rainy season. Moreover, ensure the material of the pot is plastic, metal, ceramic, or concrete because they can withstand outdoor conditions.

Do Indoor Plants Still Need the Sun?

Yes, indoor plants need the sun to grow healthy. However, the amount of sun and time for light exposure depends on the type of the indoor plant.

The Bottom-line

Taking your indoor plant outside is important as it will help in the growth of your plant. However, you need to acclimate your plant to gradually adapt to different light intensities, humidity, and fluctuating temperatures.

Remember to give proper care to your indoor plant so it can thrive outdoors and form a beautiful oasis in your outside garden.

Author Profile

Mary

🌿 Hello! I'm Mary, the nature-loving soul behind Serene Eden. Gardener, plant whisperer, compost connoisseur, sun-soaked plant enthusiast, and avid bee-watcher. Let's cultivate beauty, one bloom at a time. 🌱🌼