Days and nights are growing cooler in the area, which means it is time to consider bringing those houseplants you took outside this summer back indoors for the winter. First frosts can happen suddenly in the Milford area, which is why bringing them in before that frost happens is important. Houseplants that are tropical or subtropical, such as hibiscus, mandevilla, elephant ears, palms, spider plants and Boston ferns, can become stressed if temperatures drop below 55 degrees.
One thing to check before bringing plants indoors is to check for insects. Pests like aphids, spider mites, mealybugs and ants love to hitch a ride inside where it is warm. Check the tops and underside of leaves, along the stems and in the soil. Before bringing the plant inside, remove all dead leaves and any debris that has gathered in the pot. Wipe down the leaves with a damp cloth to remove any dust or hitchhikers. If you see pests, treat them or isolate them before putting them near other houseplants.
Remember to make the move gradually. It can also stress a plant if it is transferred from direct sunlight to a darker indoor location. Shift the plants to shadier outdoor locations, giving them progressively more shade. Once the shade mimics indoor lighting, bring them inside. It is also recommended that plants be placed near windows that provide appropriate light. However, keep in mind that even the sunniest window does not provide as much light as the plant received when it was outside.
The plants also may need less water as growth typically slows indoors. Try not to overwater plants that have been outside all winter and are now inside. Check the soil to be sure the plant needs watering before automatically adding to the soil.
It is very important not to wait for frost to be predicted before moving the plants in. Houseplants can suffer damage even before the frost occurs. If nighttime forecasts have temperatures that are going to be below 55 degrees, plants should be moved inside. Not all plants need to be moved at the same time, however. Move tropical and sub-tropical plants first while heartier plants can come in later.
If you have not had time to check for pests or other issues with outdoor plants, consider bringing them into a garage or shed first if the temperatures are predicted to drop This can prevent an infestation of ants or spiders in the living room a few weeks later.
The basic rule is simple in Delaware:Â inspect plants, ease them to lower light and bring cold-sensitive varieties indoors before chilly nights become a part of life.
