Moving Outdoor Plants Indoors for Winter

Pick the Right Spot

Most container annuals and tropicals can live inside until spring. They need bright light (used to full sun) and extra humidity—indoor air is dry.

Cool temps (60s day, 10° lower night) are ideal but they tolerate warmer.

Pre‑Move Prep

1. Inspect for pests: Spray if found.
2. Acclimate: Place in shade 2 weeks before moving in.
3. Prune back slightly: Controls size, encourages indoor‑adapted growth.
4. Repot ground‑grown plants: Use container mix with drainage; knock off garden soil to deter pests.

Winter Care

Water enough to prevent complete drying—less than growing season. Skip fertilizer; treat as rest period.

Plants That Transition Well

• Aloe, Angel’s trumpet, Bougainvillea, Citrus, Coleus, Ficus, Geranium, Hibiscus, Impatiens, Mandevilla, Passionflower, Pentas, Rosemary, Snake plant