Preventing Indoor Plant Decline After Summer: Acclimation and Light

Core Issue

Moving plants indoors causes massive light reduction. Soil hardening indicates compaction or extreme drying.

Acclimation Protocol

1. Fall: move to outdoor shade 4-6 weeks before frost.
2. Indoors: place directly in front of sunniest window.
3. Incandescent lights useless; fluorescent helps.
4. Expect older leaves to yellow and drop; new adapted leaves will grow.

Soil Hardening Fix

Use loose, peat-based mix with perlite. Water more frequently if soil becomes rock-hard.