What could be more enjoyable than spending time on the patio during the beautiful summer days? The warm season is not very long in Quebec, so you have to take advantage of the warm rays of the sun and the refreshing wind, and even the rain. Did you know that you can let your houseplants enjoy it as much as you do? It’s summer: let’s bring out the tropicals!
Which houseplants to bring out?
Most of the plants we use to decorate our homes come from tropical environments and therefore appreciate the warmth and humidity that a little summer outing in nature provides. It is important to make sure that our environment meets the needs of our plants and to offer them adequate care during their vacation on the balcony.
- Make sure the sunlight level is the right one. For example, a plant that appreciates the shade will be at a loss on your patio in full sun. The right plant in the right place; we can’t say it enough.
- Keep a close eye on watering. With the wind blowing and the sun shining, your plants may need more water than usual and rainfall may not be enough. Check the condition of the soil regularly.
- Keep track of the weather. Even if the days are warm, the nights can be much cooler, especially early and late in the season, but sometimes also in the height of summer. If nighttime temperatures below 12ºC or high winds are forecast, it is best to bring your tropicals indoors.
The importance of acclimatization
We have all been known to neglect the strength of the sun and find ourselves reddened – even burned – by it after one of the first few days of good weather. It is imperative to give your plants time to acclimate to their new environment. If you move them directly from the living room to the yard without a little preparation, they may get sunburned, lose all their leaves and even die. Take your time to avoid damaging your precious houseplants.
On the first few days of good weather, take your plants out during the day and bring them in at night. Place them in a shady, wind-free location for a few days, then in a semi-shaded area for a few more days before settling them comfortably in their final destination after about 7 to 10 days.
Keep an eye on your plants
Normally, your plants should be very happy to spend the summer outdoors. If spots or holes appear, leaves change color, or your plants look in poor condition, make sure they are not hosting unwanted insects; the outdoors is not a controlled environment like your home. When it’s time to bring them inside in the fall, you’ll also want to check them carefully to make sure you’re not bringing any unwanted guests inside. Our garden centre specialists can give you sound advice and recommend the right products to use if necessary.
Come on, out with the tropical plants!
