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Moving houseplants outside is an exciting time full of new growth, more space, and change. Moving your plants outside is a great way to increase growth, reduce pests, and have beautiful easy care plants. Unfortunately, many plant parents move their houseplants out to soon and its to cold for them to survive. Another issue is without acclimation the lighting can be to much and most of the plant can burn. Setting back growth for the entire season. There are some plants that acclimate more easily and can handle those colder nights and warmer days that spring brings. Here we have a list of the 5 best houseplants to start moving outside first.
English Ivy
English ivy (Hedera helix) is a popular. Houseplant known for its trailing vines and lush, green leaves. It is often chosen for its versatility and ability to thrive. In various conditions, making it an excellent choice for both beginner and experienced plant enthusiasts. Its trailing nature also makes it a perfect candidate for hanging baskets or cascading down shelves, adding a touch of natural beauty to any space. Furthermore, English ivy is relatively low-maintenance and can adapt well to different light levels, from bright indirect light to lower light conditions.
As spring arrives, English ivy houseplants should be among the first to be moved outside. This transition benefits the plant in several ways. Firstly, English ivy thrives in outdoor environments where it can receive direct sunlight. Natural sunlight provides the plant with the necessary energy for photosynthesis and promotes healthy growth. Moving the ivy outdoors allows it to bask in the sunlight and soak up the essential nutrients it needs to flourish.
Secondly, the increased airflow outdoors helps prevent the buildup of excess moisture, reducing the risk of fungal diseases that can affect indoor plants. The fresh air circulation also promotes stronger stems and prevents the ivy from becoming overly leggy. Finally, moving English ivy outside allows it to experience the natural seasonal changes, which can have a positive impact on its growth and overall health. Exposure to natural temperature fluctuations and gentle breezes stimulates the plant, making it more resilient and vibrant. Be warned to contain any pieces of the plant though because it can root very easily and is incredibly invasive in a yard.
Ferns
Ferns, particularly the Boston fern (Nephrolepis Exaltata), make excellent candidates. As the first houseplants to be moved outside in the springtime. One of the main reasons is their temperature and light requirements. Boston ferns thrive in moderate temperatures, typically between 60°F and 75°F (15°C and 24°C), which makes the spring season ideal for their outdoor transition. These plants appreciate the milder weather conditions and can handle slight temperature fluctuations without suffering significant stress. Additionally, Boston ferns prefer bright, indirect light, making them suitable for outdoor locations with filtered sunlight or partial shade. Placing them outside allows them to receive the optimal light levels they need for healthy growth, as indoor conditions may not always provide adequate brightness.
Another reason to move ferns like the Boston fern outside in the spring is their resilience. These plants have evolved to survive in diverse habitats, including shady forests and humid environments. Their natural adaptability enables them to withstand changing conditions and bounce back from stressors. Moving ferns outside exposes them to natural air circulation, which helps prevent stagnant air and potential issues like fungal diseases. Furthermore, outdoor environments often have higher humidity levels, providing ferns with the moisture they crave. The increased humidity not only keeps their fronds lush and vibrant but also reduces the risk of drying out, a common concern in indoor environments with dry central heating or air conditioning. Overall, the resiliency of ferns makes them an excellent choice for early spring outdoor placement, allowing them to thrive and rejuvenate in a more natural setting.
Succulents
Succulents, such as Hens & Chicks, are excellent choices as the first houseplants to transition outside in the springtime due to their hardy nature and specific temperature and light requirements. One of the key reasons succulents thrive in outdoor environments during this season is their ability to tolerate a wide range of temperatures. As the weather begins to warm up in the spring, succulents can handle the fluctuating temperatures without experiencing significant stress or damage. They are resilient to mild frost and can adapt to cooler nights, making them ideal for early spring planting. This resilience allows them to establish themselves in outdoor settings, promoting healthy growth and preparing them for the upcoming summer months.
Moreover, succulents like hens and chicks also benefit from the increased sunlight available during the springtime. These plants have evolved to survive in arid environments, and they require plenty of bright, indirect light to thrive. Placing them outside in the spring allows them to receive the optimal amount of natural sunlight. The longer daylight hours and the stronger intensity of the sun’s rays during this season provide succulents with the energy they need for photosynthesis and overall growth. The combination of suitable temperature conditions and ample sunlight makes the spring an opportune time to introduce Hens & Chicks and other succulents to the outdoors, ensuring they receive the ideal conditions to flourish and thrive
Tradescantia
Tradescantia, particularly varieties like the Tradescantia Nanouk, make excellent choices as the first houseplants to be brought outside in the springtime. These plants are known for their adaptability and resilience. Making them suitable for transitioning from indoor to outdoor environments. One of the main reasons for their success is their temperature tolerance. Tradescantia Nanouk can withstand a wide range of temperatures, making them suitable for fluctuating weather conditions in the spring. They can tolerate cooler temperatures, typically ranging from 50°F to 80°F (10°C to 27°C), which makes them well-suited for the transitional period between winter and summer. However, it’s important to avoid exposing them to frost or freezing temperatures, as these can damage or kill the plants.
Another factor that makes Tradescantia Nanouk a great choice for first-time outdoor houseplants in the spring is their lighting requirements. These plants thrive in bright, indirect light, making them adaptable to various outdoor lighting conditions. While they can tolerate partial shade, they prefer being placed in locations with filtered sunlight or dappled shade. This makes them suitable for areas such as patios, balconies or under tree canopies where they can receive. A good amount of light without being directly exposed to intense sun rays. However, it’s essential to monitor their light exposure, as too much direct sunlight can scorch the leaves. By providing the right balance of light and shade, Tradescantia Nanouk can flourish as the first houseplants outside in the spring, adding beauty and vibrancy to any outdoor space.
Epipremnum(Pothos)
Epipremnum, commonly known as Pothos, is an excellent houseplant that can thrive when moved outside in the springtime due to its care requirements. Firstly, Pothos plants are highly adaptable and can tolerate a wide range of lighting conditions. While they can survive in low light, they truly thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. Moving them outdoors during the spring allows them to receive ample natural light, which promotes healthy growth and vibrant foliage.
Secondly, Pothos plants are relatively low-maintenance, making them ideal for outdoor gardening.
They prefer well-draining soil but can tolerate occasional drying out between waterings. The spring season provides a favorable environment for Pothos, as it offers milder temperatures and increased humidity, reducing the risk of overwatering or underwatering. Furthermore, being outside allows the plants to benefit from rainwater, which is often more beneficial than tap water due to its natural mineral content.
By moving Pothos outside in the springtime, they can experience the benefits of increased sunlight and natural watering, resulting in vigorous growth and lush foliage. However, it is essential to acclimate them gradually to the outdoor conditions to prevent shock. Initially, placing them in a shaded area and gradually introducing them to brighter sunlight over a few weeks will ensure a smooth transition. With the right care, Pothos plants can thrive outdoors, adding beauty to gardens, patios, or balconies during the spring and summer months.
By carefully selecting the five best houseplants that acclimate more easily to the fluctuating temperatures of colder nights and warmer days, you can ensure their successful transition. These resilient plants not only embrace the benefits of outdoor living, such as increased growth and reduced pest issues but also withstand the chilly evenings and intense sunlight. By making informed choices and allowing for proper acclimation, you can witness your plants thrive in the great outdoors, enhancing the beauty of your surroundings throughout the entire season.
