When should you move your plants outside?

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 Do you want to move your plants outside for the summer, but don't know when to do it? Are you afraid to do it too soon and kill your plants? Don't worry I have all the information you need before you move them outside. 

    If you have had your plants inside for the winter and are excited to get them back outside you are not alone. I can't wait to take my plants outside for the summer and watch them flourish. Temperatures need to be consistently above 50 degrees at night before you take your plants out, they will also need to acclimate to receiving more sun to prevent sun burn.

    You can start bringing some of your plants out for the day to get them acclimated to the sun. It is not warm enough at night yet so you will need to bring them back in at night. Start by placing them in a spot where they will receive partial sun for a few hours a day. After about a week you can move them to a spot where they receive a bit more sun. Keep moving them waiting a week in each new spot until they are in the spot you want them to be in. Most succulents and cactus will want to be in a spot where they receive full sun. Aloes can be acclimated to receive full sun or can be placed where they receive some shade. If your plant needs repotted do it before moving them outside for the summer. Most houseplants are summer growers and will have significant growth during the summer. You can also fertilize them when you move them outside for the summer as well.

    Most people agree you should wait until Mother's Day to place your plants outside for the summer. There is no risk of frost at this point and the temperatures will be consistently above 50 degrees. Your plants will not be at risk of freezing or being damaged by low night time temperatures. Once your plants are outside and acclimated they can stay out until October. They need to be moved back inside before the first frost.