Buzz
For those residing in regions with distinct seasonal changes (though seasons seem increasingly unpredictable), you might enjoy outdoor plants during spring and summer that aren’t winter-hardy. These are referred to as “cold-tender plants,” and unlike their resilient counterparts, they cannot withstand freezing conditions or frost.
As Mark Wolfe from BobVila.com explains, some cold-tender plants can be moved indoors before the cold sets in and kept there until warmer weather returns. This not only adds new greenery to your home but also saves you the effort and expense of replacing these plants come spring. Here’s a list of plants to consider and tips for transitioning them indoors.
Steps to prepare your plants for their indoor transition
Transitioning outdoor plants indoors for the winter requires more than just relocating their pots. Wolfe advises starting with a thorough pest inspection—unwanted critters shouldn’t hitch a ride into your home.
If repotting is necessary, you can conduct the inspection during the process. Once the plant is settled in its new container, Wolfe suggests reducing or completely halting fertilization.
“Some plants thrive indoors as houseplants, others benefit from a dormant period in cool storage, and some are best propagated through rooted cuttings,” he notes. A quick online search can help determine the best approach for your specific plant.
Outdoor plants suitable for indoor relocation during winter
As you explore plant options, here are 10 varieties Wolfe recommends for successfully transitioning between outdoor and indoor environments:
Palms
Cacti
Citrus
Tropical hibiscus
Jasmine
Elephant ears
Boston ferns
Geraniums
Angel’s trumpet
Banana
For more in-depth information about each plant, check out Wolfe’s article.
