Outdoor Summer Care for Houseplants, Ponytail Palm Growth, and Grape Ivy Cuttings

Moving Plants Outdoors for Summer

Bugs (spiders, etc.) may hitchhike back indoors. Inspect and hose down before bringing in. Most outdoor insects won't survive long inside.

Ponytail Palm (Beaucarnea recurvata) Height

Very slow grower. To encourage vertical growth, prune off some lower shoots to redirect energy upward. Ensure bright light and well-draining soil.

Rescuing Grape Ivy (Cissus rhombifolia) Cuttings

Cuttings arrived in soggy, bagged soil—likely rotted. Only one had a root.

Care for the Rooted Cutting

• Pot in well-draining mix (1 part loam, 1 part sand/perlite, ½–1 part peat).
• Bright indirect light (east/west window).
• Water thoroughly, keep moist but not soggy. Let top ½" dry between waterings.
• Warm temps (71–85°F day, 66–75°F night).
• Fertilize every 3 months lightly.

For Unrooted Cuttings

Root in water or moist perlite/peat. High humidity helps (plastic bag tent). Grape ivy roots slowly—be patient.

Root rot is the main risk—ensure drainage.