Spider plants are popular houseplants. While commonly grown indoors, these adaptable plants can thrive outdoors during warmer summer months. This article guides you on transitioning your spider plant to an outdoor environment and maintaining its health.
Why Place Spider Plants Outdoors
Moving spider plants outdoors for the summer offers several advantages. Natural light, even indirect, promotes robust development. Improved air circulation helps prevent common indoor issues like fungal problems. This environment can also stimulate “spiderette” production, resulting in a fuller, more prolific plant.
Essential Outdoor Care
Light Requirements
Spider plants flourish in bright, indirect light outdoors. Dappled shade or partial sun locations are ideal, providing 4 to 6 hours of filtered sunlight. Shield them from harsh, direct afternoon sun, which scorches leaves. While some direct morning sun is tolerated, intense sunlight damages foliage.
Watering Needs
Outdoor spider plants require more frequent watering than indoor ones due to increased heat and wind exposure. Water thoroughly when the top inch or two of soil feels dry. Ensure adequate moisture by allowing excess water to drain from the pot’s bottom. Consistent moisture is preferable for optimal growth.
Temperature and Humidity
Spider plants prefer temperatures from 65-75°F (18-24°C) but tolerate 55-85°F (13-29°C) outdoors. Temperatures below 50°F (10°C) can damage foliage. Prolonged exposure above 90°F (32°C) may lead to heat stress and wilting. Spider plants appreciate moderate to high humidity, often naturally present outdoors during summer.
Pest Management
Outdoor spider plants may attract common pests like aphids, spider mites, scale, and whiteflies. Regularly inspect leaves, especially the undersides, for early detection. A strong water stream can dislodge many pests; insecticidal soap or neem oil can treat persistent infestations. Address pest issues promptly to prevent bringing them indoors later.
Acclimating and Returning Your Plant Indoors
Acclimating your spider plant to outdoor conditions is a gradual process to prevent shock. Begin by placing the plant in a shady spot for a few hours, slowly increasing its exposure to filtered sunlight over one to two weeks. This “hardening off” period allows the plant to adjust. Skipping this step can lead to leaf burn and stress.
Before cold weather arrives, typically when nighttime temperatures consistently drop below 50-60°F (10-15°C), bring your spider plant back inside. Thoroughly inspect the plant for pests or diseases before moving it indoors. Clean the leaves by wiping or showering the plant to remove dust and hitchhikers. Unlike the outdoor transition, no gradual reintroduction to indoor light is needed.