If you’ve been growing tropical or non-hardy plants outside, it’s time to prepare them to bring them indoors. Beginning this process in early fall, your plants will be ready to enter before the weather gets too cold. And remember to watch for early frost warnings!

How to Prepare Your Plants for Indoors This Winter

1. Acclimate to Lower Light: Move your tropical or non-hardy plants to a shady outdoor location for 10 days to two weeks. This will help them adjust to the lower light conditions they’ll experience indoors.
2. Monitor for Cold Temperatures and Frost: If a sudden cold snap is expected, monitor temperatures and protect your plants from frost by moving them indoors.
3. Remove Insects by Hosing Down: Before bringing plants inside, use a strong stream of water to remove any insects. Repeat this process a couple of times for the best results.
4. Spray with Insecticidal Soap: Before bringing your plants indoors, thoroughly spray their leaves, stems, and trunks with insecticidal soap to eliminate any remaining pests. Allow the spray to dry thoroughly before bringing the plants inside.
5. Inspect the Root Ball: Lay the plant on its side, gently slide it out of the pot, and check the root ball for hidden pests. For a thorough cleanse, fill a large tub with water and submerge the plant’s pot for several hours. Any insects or pests will float to the top or be eliminated. Make sure the soil drains fully before bringing the plant inside.
6. Place in a Well-Lit Indoor Area: Move your plants to a bright indoor spot, away from heat vents and cold drafts. Use a saucer under the pot to catch excess water.
7. Water Properly: Water the plants thoroughly with lukewarm water, let them dry, and water again as needed. Never allow water to sit in the saucer, as this can lead to root rot.
8. Expect Some Leaf Drop: Plants naturally lose a few leaves as they adjust to indoor lighting. The lower light levels can cause temporary leaf drop, but don’t worry; it’s part of the transition.
9. Reduce Feeding: During winter, reduce feeding to occasional applications of water-soluble fertilizer. Increase feeding when days start to lengthen in spring.
10. Rinse Plants Occasionally: Give your plants a gentle rinse several times in winter. The shower works great for this! A five- to ten-minute rinse with lukewarm water helps wash away pests, clean leaves, and add humidity, which your plants will appreciate.

Follow these 10 tips to keep your plants healthy indoors all winter and ready for the spring garden!

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