Summer is the perfect time to put your houseplants outside and turn your balcony into a green oasis. But how do you make sure your plants thrive outside? Here you can find out what you need to pay attention to so that your houseplants can enjoy the summer on the balcony and terrace.
The ideal time for houseplants on the balcony
Before you put your houseplants outside, you should wait for the right time. As soon as the temperature is consistently above 15 degrees Celsius, most houseplants can be put outside without any problem. This is usually the case from mid-May. It is especially important to wait until the Ice Saints, as the nights can still be very cold then.
This is what you need to consider when placing houseplants outside
If your plants find their way onto the balcony, there are a few important points to consider:
- Acclimatization: Do not expose your plants to direct sunlight. Get them used to the new light conditions slowly by first placing them in a shady spot and gradually increasing the hours of sunlight.
- Weather protection: Make sure that your plants are protected from strong winds and too much rainwater. A covered balcony or a suitable windbreak can help here.
- Choosing a location: Choose your location on the balcony carefully. Some plants prefer sunny spots, others prefer partial shade or shade. Find out about the individual needs of your houseplant.
- Watering: Plants can dry out more quickly outdoors. Check the soil moisture regularly and water more frequently if necessary. However, avoid waterlogging as this can damage the roots.
- Pests: Outdoors, your houseplants are exposed to more pests. Watch out for aphids, snails and other uninvited guests and treat them with natural remedies if necessary. You can find out more about natural pest and disease control in this video!
When should you bring the plants back inside?
Summer is coming to an end and the nights are getting cooler. When temperatures reach 10 degrees Celsius, you should bring your houseplants back inside. Sudden changes in the weather and autumn storms can also damage your plants. Depending on the weather, a good time to bring the plants back inside is early to mid-September.
The right houseplants for the balcony
Not all houseplants are suitable for being on the balcony. Here are some easy-care and hardy candidates that you can put outside in the summer with a clear conscience:
Aloe vera
Aloe vera is a true survivor. It loves sunny locations and can also cope well with drought. Its fleshy leaves store water, so it does not need to be watered often.
Succulents
Succulents are ideal balcony plants for the summer. They need little water and can tolerate direct sunlight. Make sure the soil is well-drained to avoid waterlogging. Succulents such as echeverias or houseleeks are decorative eye-catchers and very easy to care for.
Fern
Ferns love high humidity and shady places. On the balcony, they should be placed in partial shade. They need regular watering and a humid environment - so spray them regularly with water using a spray bottle.
Snake plant
The snake plant, also known as mother-in-law's tongue, is extremely robust and easy to care for. It tolerates both sunny and shady spots and needs little water.
Jade plant
The jade plant is a succulent plant that prefers sunny to partially shaded locations. It is very easy to care for and needs very little water. The jade plant is ideal for the balcony and can thrive there. However, you should place it so that it is protected from heavy rain and wind.
Monstera
The Monstera, also known as the Swiss cheese plant, prefers bright to partially shaded locations and does not tolerate direct sunlight. On the balcony, it feels particularly comfortable in partial shade. Make sure that the Monstera is watered regularly and that it does not become waterlogged. In summer, it thrives outdoors and its large leaves create a tropical flair.
Our FARBIO® organic fertilizers support you in supplying your plants.