Make the transition from outside to inside smooth, so your plants thrive all year long.

Summer is a plant lover’s paradise — long days, warm sunshine, and happy greenery soaking it all in. But as the air turns crisp and the days grow shorter, our plant friends need a little help making the shift from their sun-drenched summer patios to the cozy, climate-controlled indoors.

1. Know Who’s Coming Inside

Not all outdoor plants need to be brought indoors. Annuals will naturally finish their life cycle, but tropicals, houseplants, and tender perennials won’t survive frost. Think: pothos, monstera, hibiscus, citrus trees, succulents, and herbs like basil.

2. Check for Uninvited Guests

Before bringing plants inside, give them a thorough once-over. Look under leaves, along stems, and in the soil for pests. A gentle spray with water or a mild insecticidal soap can help evict any hitchhikers.

3. Gradual is Better

Plants can experience “shock” if they go from full summer sun straight into indoor lighting. Start by moving them into shaded outdoor spots for a week or two, then bring them inside. This mimics the gradual change in light they’d naturally experience.

4. Repot if Needed

Fall is a great time to refresh soil and check root health. If roots are circling the pot or poking out the bottom, give your plant a slightly larger home. Use fresh potting mix to replenish nutrients.

5. Adjust Watering & Feeding

With less light and slower growth in winter, your plants will need less water and fertilizer. Let the top inch or two of soil dry before watering, and pause on heavy feeding until spring.

6. Maximize Winter Light

Place plants near bright windows, preferably south or west-facing. For darker spaces, consider a grow light to keep them happy through the darker months.

7. Mind the Humidity

Indoor air can get dry in the winter. Group plants together, use pebble trays, or run a humidifier to keep humidity-loving plants (like ferns or calatheas) from crisping up.