As the days grow longer and temperatures rise, many houseplants can benefit from a summer vacation outdoors. On the Olympic Peninsula (OP), taking your houseplants outside can encourage lush growth, stronger stems, and even flowering in some species. However, not all houseplants will enjoy a vacation and the transition for others requires careful planning to ensure plants don’t suffer from sudden environmental changes.
First, a little bit about the homebodies. Some houseplants are better left indoors due to their sensitivity to light, heat, or changes in humidity. Many plants, like prayer plants and variegated plants, that need medium to low indoor light, are just too sensitive for the great outdoors. Others do not adapt well to major changes in humidity.
For the more robust plants, the best time to move houseplants outdoors is after the danger of frost has passed and nighttime temperatures consistently stay above 50°F. On the OP, this usually happens in early June to mid-June, but it’s always best to check local forecasts and microclimates.
Houseplants accustomed to indoor conditions can be sensitive to direct sunlight, strong winds, and fluctuating temperatures. When moving plants outside, follow these guidelines:
• Always start with full shade: Even sun-loving plants like succulents and citrus trees need time to adjust. Begin by placing them in a shaded or partially shaded area, such as under a covered porch, beneath trees, or on the north side of a building.
• Gradual sun exposure: Over the course of two weeks, slowly introduce plants to more sunlight. This helps prevent sunburn, which appears as bleached or scorched leaves. Most houseplants will not thrive in full-day sun, so choose a partially shaded location.
• Shelter from wind: It’s well known that many areas on the OP can experience strong winds. Wind can quickly dry out plants and easily damage delicate foliage. Keep houseplants in an area protected from strong wind.
Outdoor conditions will likely increase evaporation, meaning houseplants will need more frequent watering than they did indoors. Daily monitoring is advised. Depending on type or size, many houseplants may require water daily.
Humidity-loving plants often thrive in the natural moisture of the coastal climate. However, during the dry season misting or placing shallow water trays nearby can help maintain humidity levels.
Unfortunately, outdoor exposure also increases the risk of pests such as aphids, spider mites, and slugs. To minimize problems, inspect plants regularly for signs of pests or damage. Rinse leaves occasionally with a gentle spray of water to remove dust and deter bugs.
As summer fades into fall, houseplants will need to be transitioned back indoors before nighttime temperatures drop below 50°F — usually by September. Just as they were gradually introduced to outdoor conditions, they should be slowly reintroduced to indoor life. Bring them inside for a few hours each day over a week or two to prevent shock. This is a good time to check carefully for pests and to repot with fresh soil if needed.
Demonstration garden
Did you know the Clallam County Master Gardeners have a beautiful 2.4-acre demonstration garden in Sequim? The Woodcock Demonstration Garden is open year-round from dawn to dusk. No matter the season, there’s always something to see!
Bring your camera, your paints and/or a picnic, and visit us at 2711 Woodcock Rd. in Sequim, with convenient parking always available in the lot west of the main gate. The entire garden is maintained by volunteers. We love what we do!
Kids and service dogs are welcome, but please no other pets.
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Susan Kalmar is a WSU Clallam County Master Gardener.
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• Calathea / Prayer Plant — scorches in sunlight; dislikes low humidity
• African Violet — sensitive to temperature swings; leaves burn easily in direct sun
• Peperomia — doesn’t handle strong outdoor light or humidity changes well
• Fittonia (Nerve Plant) — wilts quickly outside; thrives in stable indoor humidity
• Orchids (Phalaenopsis) — can suffer from crown rot or sunburn when exposed to rain and sun
• Ferns (Maidenhair, Bird’s Nest, etc.) — fronds dry or brown quickly in direct sun or wind
• Rare Variegated Plants — variegation may fade or be damaged by too much sunlight
• Indoor-acclimated Succulents — don’t assume succulents are bullet proof when taken outside. Caution is recommended. Sudden full sun can cause sunburn or rot if they’re not slowly acclimated as is recommended for other houseplants
