September marks a perfect time to start transitioning your beloved indoor plants to the great outdoors. As the temperatures begin to cool and daylight hours decrease, preparing your plants for their new environment ensures they continue to thrive and bring beauty to your garden. It’s such a rewarding experience to watch your indoor favorites flourish under the open sky, enjoying fresh air and natural sunlight!
As a dedicated gardener, I understand the excitement and a bit of anxiety that comes with moving plants outside. Whether you’re looking to expand your garden or simply want to give your plants a change of scenery, transitioning them properly is key. Let’s explore fifteen fantastic indoor plants that are ready to make the move outside this September, along with tips to help them adapt seamlessly to their new surroundings!
Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
The Snake Plant, or Sansevieria, is a hardy favorite among indoor gardeners. Native to West Africa, this plant is renowned for its striking, upright leaves that come in various shades of green and often feature yellow edges. Its robust nature makes it an excellent candidate for transitioning outdoors, as it can withstand a range of conditions once acclimated. While not considered invasive, its vigorous growth can sometimes make it appear dominant in garden settings.
Transitioning your Snake Plant outside involves gradually increasing its exposure to sunlight to prevent leaf burn. Start by placing it in a shaded outdoor area and slowly move it to a sunnier spot over a couple of weeks. Ensure the soil is well-draining, as Snake Plants are susceptible to root rot in overly moist conditions. With minimal care, your Snake Plant will continue to be a resilient and attractive addition to your outdoor space!
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider Plants are beloved for their arching, variegated leaves and the charming “spiderettes” that dangle below, adding dynamic movement to any garden. Originating from South Africa, these plants are adaptable and can thrive both indoors and outdoors. While they aren’t invasive, their prolific nature means they can spread quickly if not managed, making them a lively addition to your garden beds or hanging baskets.
To transition Spider Plants outside, start by acclimating them to outdoor temperatures and sunlight gradually. Place them in a partially shaded area initially, shielding them from harsh midday sun. Regular watering is essential, especially during the first few weeks, to help them establish their roots in the new environment. With their easy-going nature, Spider Plants will bring a touch of greenery and life to your September garden!
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ Plant is a stunning choice for gardeners looking to add a touch of elegance to their outdoor spaces. Native to Eastern Africa, this plant is prized for its glossy, dark green leaves and its ability to thrive in low-light conditions. While not invasive, its slow growth rate ensures it remains a manageable and attractive addition to your garden without overwhelming other plants.
When moving your ZZ Plant outside, ensure it is protected from direct, intense sunlight initially. Gradually introduce it to more light over a couple of weeks to prevent leaf scorching. ZZ Plants prefer well-drained soil, so consider adding some sand or perlite to improve drainage. With its drought-tolerant nature, once established, the ZZ Plant requires minimal maintenance, making it a fantastic option for both novice and experienced gardeners!
Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Peace Lilies are cherished for their elegant white blooms and lush, dark green foliage. Native to the tropical regions of Central and South America, these plants bring a serene beauty to any garden setting. While they are not typically invasive, Peace Lilies can spread and form dense clusters if not regularly pruned, adding a graceful touch to your outdoor oasis.
Transitioning Peace Lilies outside involves ensuring they receive bright, indirect sunlight to maintain their stunning blooms without the risk of leaf burn. Gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions by starting with a few hours of shade each day and slowly increasing their exposure. Peace Lilies thrive in moist, well-drained soil, so regular watering is crucial, especially during the transition period. With proper care, Peace Lilies will continue to enchant your garden with their timeless beauty!
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos is a versatile and resilient plant that can effortlessly adapt to both indoor and outdoor environments. Originating from the Solomon Islands, this vine is known for its heart-shaped leaves and trailing habit, making it perfect for hanging baskets or climbing structures in your garden. While Pothos is not considered invasive, its rapid growth requires regular pruning to keep it in check and maintain its charming appearance.
To transition Pothos outside, gradually introduce it to outdoor light conditions to prevent leaf damage. Start by placing it in a shaded area and slowly move it to a location with more sunlight over a couple of weeks. Pothos prefers well-drained soil and moderate watering, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings. With its easy-going nature, Pothos will add vibrant greenery and a touch of wild charm to your September garden!
Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata)
The Fiddle Leaf Fig is a dramatic and eye-catching plant, prized for its large, glossy leaves that can make a bold statement in any garden. Native to the rainforests of Western Africa, this tree-like plant can grow impressively tall when moved outside, making it a stunning focal point. While not invasive, its size and growth rate mean it requires ample space and regular maintenance to thrive outdoors.
When transitioning a Fiddle Leaf Fig outside, ensure it is placed in a location with bright, indirect sunlight and protected from strong winds. Gradually acclimate it to outdoor conditions by increasing its exposure to sunlight over several weeks. The soil should be rich and well-draining, and consistent watering is essential to keep the leaves healthy and vibrant. With proper care, the Fiddle Leaf Fig will transform your garden into a lush, tropical paradise!
Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Chinese Evergreens are admired for their striking foliage, which comes in a variety of colors and patterns, adding vibrant accents to any garden. Native to the tropical regions of Asia, these plants are highly adaptable and can thrive both indoors and outdoors. While they are not invasive, their lush growth habit requires adequate space and regular care to maintain their beauty in an outdoor setting.
To transition Chinese Evergreens outside, place them in a shaded or partially shaded area to protect them from direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves. Gradually increase their exposure to outdoor light over a few weeks to help them adjust. These plants prefer moist, well-drained soil, so ensure consistent watering, especially during dry spells. With their stunning foliage and hardy nature, Chinese Evergreens will bring a splash of color and life to your September garden!
Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
The Jade Plant is a succulent favorite known for its thick, fleshy leaves and sturdy stems, making it a resilient addition to any garden. Native to South Africa and Mozambique, this plant is celebrated for its longevity and ability to thrive in various conditions. While not invasive, Jade Plants can become top-heavy as they grow, so they may require staking or support in an outdoor garden.
When moving a Jade Plant outside, choose a sunny spot where it can bask in full sunlight without the risk of burning. Gradually acclimate it to the outdoor environment by increasing its exposure to sunlight over several days. Jade Plants prefer well-drained soil and minimal watering, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings. With its hardy nature and attractive appearance, the Jade Plant is a wonderful addition to your autumn garden!
Bromeliads
Bromeliads are vibrant, tropical plants known for their striking flowers and unique foliage, adding a splash of color to any garden. Native to the Americas, these plants are versatile and can be grown in the ground or in containers, making them perfect for transitioning outdoors. While some species can be invasive in certain climates, most cultivated Bromeliads are well-behaved and pose no significant threat to local ecosystems.
To transition Bromeliads outside, place them in a location with bright, indirect sunlight to preserve their colorful blooms and prevent leaf scorch. Gradually introduce them to outdoor conditions by increasing their exposure to sunlight and fresh air over a couple of weeks. Bromeliads thrive in well-drained soil and appreciate regular watering, especially in the center cup that holds water. With their stunning appearance and low-maintenance needs, Bromeliads will bring tropical flair and vibrant energy to your September garden!
Coleus
Coleus is a dynamic and colorful plant, renowned for its vibrant foliage in an array of patterns and hues, making it a standout in any garden setting. Native to Southeast Asia, Coleus is highly adaptable and thrives both indoors and outdoors, adding lively splashes of color as the seasons change. While not invasive, its rapid growth means it can quickly cover spaces, so regular pruning helps maintain its shape and vibrancy.
When transitioning Coleus outside, ensure it is placed in a partially shaded area to protect its delicate leaves from intense sunlight. Gradually acclimate it to outdoor conditions by increasing its exposure to light and wind over several days. Coleus prefers rich, well-drained soil and consistent watering to keep its foliage lush and colorful. With its stunning array of colors and easy-going nature, Coleus is a fantastic choice to enliven your September garden!
Begonia
Begonias are beloved for their beautiful, intricate flowers and stunning foliage, making them a versatile choice for both indoor and outdoor gardens. Native to tropical and subtropical regions, Begonias come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, adding elegance and charm to any space. While they are not considered invasive, their lush growth requires regular maintenance to prevent them from becoming too dense.
To transition Begonias outside, place them in a location with filtered sunlight to protect their delicate leaves from scorching. Gradually introduce them to outdoor conditions by increasing their exposure to sunlight and fresh air over a couple of weeks. Begonias thrive in well-drained, fertile soil and require regular watering to keep their foliage vibrant and healthy. With their exquisite flowers and lush leaves, Begonias will add a touch of sophistication and beauty to your September garden!
Philodendron
Philodendrons are a staple for many indoor gardens, admired for their large, glossy leaves and easy-care nature. Native to the tropical regions of the Americas, these versatile plants can adapt to both indoor and outdoor environments, making them perfect for transitioning outside as the weather cools. While not invasive, their vigorous growth can require regular pruning to keep them in check and maintain their attractive form.
When moving Philodendrons outside, choose a shaded or partially shaded spot to protect them from direct sunlight, which can cause leaf burn. Gradually acclimate them to the outdoor environment by increasing their exposure to light and fresh air over a few weeks. Philodendrons prefer rich, well-drained soil and consistent watering to support their lush growth. With their stunning foliage and hardy nature, Philodendrons will continue to be a beautiful and resilient addition to your September garden!
Calathea
Calatheas are prized for their striking, patterned leaves that feature vibrant colors and intricate designs, making them a standout in any garden. Native to the tropical forests of South America, Calatheas thrive in humid, shaded environments, making them ideal for partially shaded outdoor areas. While not invasive, their delicate nature requires careful handling during the transition to ensure they adapt smoothly to their new surroundings.
To transition Calatheas outside, place them in a location with indirect sunlight to prevent their beautiful leaves from burning. Gradually introduce them to outdoor conditions by increasing their exposure to light and humidity over several weeks. Calatheas prefer moist, well-drained soil and consistent watering to maintain their vibrant foliage. With their stunning leaf patterns and graceful presence, Calatheas will add a touch of tropical elegance to your September garden!
Herbs (Basil, Mint)
Herbs like Basil and Mint are fantastic choices for transitioning from indoor to outdoor gardens, offering both culinary and ornamental benefits. Native to various regions—Basil hails from tropical regions of Asia, while Mint originates from Europe and Asia—these herbs are easy to grow and highly adaptable. While Mint can be invasive due to its rapid spreading, Basil is generally well-behaved, making them excellent additions to your herb garden.
When moving herbs outside, ensure they receive ample sunlight to promote healthy growth and robust flavors. Gradually acclimate them to outdoor conditions by increasing their exposure to sunlight and fresh air over a week or two. Basil prefers well-drained soil and regular watering, while Mint thrives in moist environments and can tolerate partial shade. With their aromatic leaves and versatile uses, transitioning herbs like Basil and Mint to your September garden will enhance both its beauty and functionality!
