When to Bring Houseplants Indoors: The 50°F (10°C) Threshold

The Magic Number

Most tropical houseplants suffer below 50 °F (10 °C). At 13 °C (55 °F) nights, they're okay for now, but a sudden drop causes leaf drop and setback.

Strategy

• If daytime highs are still warm, do the "fall shuffle": out by day, in by night.
• Once nights consistently hit 50 °F, move them in permanently.
• Check for pests before bringing in; treat if needed.

Better early than late—cold damage is irreversible.