When you are ready to move your houseplants outside:

• Wait until there is no longer any danger of freezing or frost before setting houseplants outside.
• Before you place plants outdoors, acclimate them to the spring temperatures. Set them outside for short periods of time and bring them inside at night.
• Over a period of two weeks, lengthen the plants’ outdoor exposure time gradually. Continue to bring plants inside at night if temperatures are not consistently above 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Do not place plants directly in the sun or else the leaves may burn.
• Set plants on pot feet or a suitable plant stand to prevent sow bugs.
• Arrange plants in groups for increased humidity, being careful to promote good air circulation within the foliage.
• Check soil often for moisture levels, as warmer days and breezes may dry pots out more quickly.
• Empty saucers of excess water to prevent root rot and minimize standing water that will attract biting insects.
• While away on vacation, use a self-regulating plant watering system.
• Mulch the surface of the soil to retain moisture and keep weed seeds from invading the soil.
• Keep squirrels from digging in pots by placing a layer of crushed oyster shells or chicken wire on top of the soil.
• Use a slow-release fertilizer to save you time and energy on frequent fertilizing. Or, use a water soluble fertilizer every other week. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions so as not to burn tender plant roots.
• Groom plants by clipping off damaged stems, yellow leaves and spent flowers. This will also improve air circulation and sunlight reach.
• Trellis or stake plants that get too tall to prevent them from flopping over.