As cooler weather approaches, you will want to gradually transition houseplants for the move back indoors. Tropical plants may be injured when temperatures drop below fifty degrees. Ideally, move houseplants inside when temperatures inside and outside the home are about the same.
Inspect plants, including the root ball, for insects before bringing them inside. Aphids, scale, spider mites and whiteflies are common houseplant pests. If you find insects, treat them with an appropriate insecticide before bringing them back in the house. As always, read and follow all label directions of the product you select. Some insecticides will require a second application to break the lifecycle of the pest.
Acclimate your plants for the move indoors by slowly moving them from sun to light shade and then heavy shade. This process should take about a week. The move to lower light will result in some plant stress, you may see leaves yellowing or dropping as the plants acclimate.
Once in the house, place sun-loving plants in south or west facing windows. Plants that like more indirect light will do better in an east facing window. Keep plants away from the drafts of air conditioner and heater vents. Once inside the house, avoid overwatering to prevent root rot and fungus gnats.
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