Bring Houseplants Inside for Winter
Watch for night temperatures dropping to 50°F or 55°F, or aim for two to four weeks before the first frost. Sources vary slightly on the exact temp, but the timing window is solid. Rinse pots and leaves, trim dead foliage, and swap the top inch of soil. Ease plants into shadier outdoor spots for one to two weeks before moving them indoors. Place them in bright south or west windows, reduce watering, and quarantine arrivals for two to three weeks to keep pests out.
What you need
- Fresh potting mix
- Water
- Bright indoor window
- Supplemental lighting
- Quarantine space
Steps
- Bring plants inside when night temps start dropping toward 50°F or 55°F. Moving two to four weeks before the first frost is a reliable guide.
- Gradually move plants from outdoor light to shadier spots over one to two weeks. This shift is worth the patience; it helps plants adapt and reduces leaf drop.
- Rinse leaves and pots thoroughly. Trim off dead or damaged leaves and replace the top inch of soil with fresh mix to remove potential pests.
- Check every plant closely. Look under leaves, on stems, at joints, and in the soil for aphids, whiteflies, scale insects, and spider mites.
- Place plants in the brightest indoor window, typically south or west-facing. Use supplemental lighting if necessary to avoid light shock.
- Water less often. Indoor conditions are drier and plants grow slower, so cutting back prevents overwatering.
- Keep plants isolated for two to three weeks. This ensures any pests are detected and treated before they spread.
Why it works
Pest Control
Pests spread quickly indoors. Inspecting and cleaning removes eggs and larvae, protecting your collection.
Light Adaptation
Gradual changes help plants adjust to lower light levels, keeping leaf drop to a minimum.
Water Balance
Reducing watering matches the slower growth rate and drier indoor air, which is great for avoiding root rot.
Related on Gardeners Bible: Bring Tropical Houseplants Indoors for Winter, How to Divide Perennials in October, How to Plant Spring Bulbs for a Full Season of Color, Sow Fast-Fall Vegetables in October for Spring Harvests.
If it goes wrong
Treatment Options
Pest control methods vary. People who do this recommend neem oil, insecticidal soaps, or wiping leaves with isopropyl alcohol. Pick the approach that works for your plants.
Light Shock
If leaves drop after moving indoors, the transition may have been too fast. Use supplemental lighting next time and shade plants gradually.
