Bringing Houseplants Indoors for Winter: Pest-Free Transition

Pre-Move Checklist

1. Inspect thoroughly: Leaves (both sides), stems, soil surface.
2. Hose down: Strong spray knocks off large insects.
3. Soap spray: 1 tsp liquid dish soap per quart water. Spray all surfaces. Kills soft-bodied pests.
4. Soil pests: Submerge pot to rim in plain water 30 min. Soil dwellers flee; discard them.
5. Prune: Remove dead/damaged growth; reduce size for indoor space.
6. Stop fertilizing: Plants enter semi-dormancy.
7. Do not repot: Wait until spring.

Acclimation (Critical)

Gradually move from full sun → light shade → deep shade over 2–3 weeks before bringing inside. Leaves grown in high light can't function in low light; gradual transition reduces shock and leaf drop.

What to Expect

• Slow growth, some yellowing, soil stays wet longer.
• Not dormancy — just light adjustment.
• Resume fertilizing in spring when days lengthen.

Special Cases

• Amaryllis: Dry, dark, cool (55°F) 8 weeks from Sept.
• Christmas Cactus: Cool (50–55°F), short days to set buds.
• Poinsettia: 12 hrs total darkness, 60°F nights for color.