Timing is Key When Moving Plants Back Inside for the Winter

By Trisha Gedon, Oklahoma State University

First posted on 08-31-2010

People across the Ozarks have been feeling a bit of a chill in the air lately. When the weather cools down it is time to bring in the houseplants that have been outdoors all summer.

Kim Rebek, Oklahoma State University Cooperative Extension assistant specialist and host of Oklahoma Gardening, said houseplants should be moved indoors about the time the outside temperature is the same as it is inside.

“Moving your plants indoors at this time will give them the chance to acclimate to the indoor temperature before you turn on the heat,” Rebek said. “You’ll also avoid unnecessary cold damage to tropical plants by moving them indoors before a cold front moves through.”

Keep in mind that moving a plant from its perch on a sunny patio to a dark living room is not advisable. Plants will go into shock with drastic changes in lighting conditions. It is best to slowly acclimate the plant to lower light levels. This can easily be done by moving the plants to a more shaded area outdoors over the course of a week before bringing it inside.

“Be sure to inspect the plant thoroughly for insects and other invertebrates before bringing it indoors. Many garden pests are transferred indoors with houseplants, where they move out to attack other houseplants or become nuisance pests,” she said. “Beetles, slugs, pill bugs and centipedes live in the soil around the base of the pot, so be sure to remove the plants from their pots when looking for insects. Another favorite hiding spot for bugs is between the pot and the saucer.”

The foliage and stems also should be checked closely for pests. Aphids, mealy bugs and scales can all move indoors unseen on houseplants, where their populations can explode. If you find these insects, wash them from plants with a heavy stream of water or treat plants with an insecticidal soap. Always read product labels to make sure the soap is compatible with the plant you are treating. You may want to isolate treated plants from your other houseplants for a few weeks until you have determined the pests are under control.

“Houseplants can add such vibrant color and texture to a home during the winter months,” Rebek said. “Take some steps now to help ensure the plants are healthy and pest-free and they’re sure to last throughout the winter and be ready to put outdoors next spring.”

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