Hardening Off Houseplants: Moving Plants Outdoors for Summer

Most houseplants thrive with a summer vacation outdoors, but the transition requires “hardening off”—a gradual adjustment to prevent sunburn, wind damage, and shock. Here’s how to do it right.

Moving Houseplants Outside

Wait until nighttime temperatures match indoor temps (usually early summer). Start in full shade—a covered porch or under a tree—for two weeks. Then move to partial shade, and finally to morning/late afternoon sun if the species tolerates it. Protect from intense midday sun.

Outdoor conditions increase water needs (wind and heat dry soil faster) and may require more frequent fertilizing due to accelerated growth.

Bringing Plants Back Indoors

Reverse the process in late summer/early fall, well before frost. Inspect for pests, wash foliage, and place in a bright window first. Then move to a shady outdoor spot, then a porch, before full indoor return. This gradual reduction in light prevents leaf drop and stress.

Hardening off isn’t complicated, but skipping it risks damaging plants you’ve nurtured all year.