Spring has sprung, and though it may not feel like it depending on where you live, the warm weather will be here soon enough!
Our houseplants have been begging us for more sunshine—and did you know that some of our favourite plants can actually thrive outdoors? Makes sense, since that's where they originated... but it's kind of like tossing your pet dog or cat into the wilderness. Some have been too ✨pampered✨ to go back to their native instincts!
Not all houseplants are able to handle the transition from indoor to outdoor living. Here are some houseplants that can thrive outdoors during the spring and summer months!
1. Snake plants
Snake plants (Sansevieria) are a great option for outdoor living because they are very resilient and adaptable plants. They are native to arid regions of West Africa, where they have to endure harsh, dry conditions. This makes them well-suited to outdoor living, particularly during the warmer months. They're ultra hardy and don't require a ton of upkeep! They can either go in shade or sun—plant parent's choice.
Rubber plants (Ficus elastica) are native to tropical regions of India and Southeast Asia, where they grow as large trees in rainforests. These plants are known for their glossy, dark green leaves and their ability to grow quickly under the right conditions. While rubber plants are commonly grown as houseplants, they can also thrive outdoors in certain climates.
One of the main reasons that rubber plants do well outdoors is their ability to handle bright, indirect sunlight. In their native habitat, rubber plants grow under the canopy of taller trees, which means they are adapted to receiving filtered sunlight. This makes them a great option for outdoor living spaces that receive partial shade or indirect sunlight!
Ficus lyrata, also known as the fiddle leaf fig, is a beautiful houseplant that can also be grown outdoors. Originating from West Africa, they are used to a warm, humid climate under the canopy. They prefer partial shade and well-draining soil. Ficus lyrata is fairly drought-tolerant, making it a great option for the warmer summer months!
Bird of paradise, also known as Strelitzia reginae, prefer full sun to partial shade, so choose a location that receives plenty of sunlight but also has some protection from the hottest afternoon sun!
5. Boston ferns
Boston ferns are also native to tropical regions and are known for their long, graceful fronds. They are commonly grown as houseplants, but they can also thrive outdoors in shaded or partially shaded areas. A spot that is shaded by other trees, or only receives a bit of morning sunlight would be best. They require frequent watering and will do best in a high humidity environment!
6. Peace lilies
Peace lilies are native to tropical regions of the Americas and are known for their dark green leaves and white flowers. While they are commonly grown as houseplants, peace lilies can also do well in outdoor living spaces that receive partial shade or indirect sunlight.
7. Palms
Who doesn't love a good palm? They can make any space look like a tropical oasis. Majesty palms in particular are more suitable to being outdoors than other palms, as they love sunshine! However, it's important to place it in a spot that gets a mix of sun and shade for the best results (no one wants yellow fronds). Native to Madagascar, the majesty palm is also used to warm and humid conditions.
There you have it! These are just a few examples of some houseplants you might have lying around that could use a change of scenery this season.
Curious about the process of transitioning your plants to being outdoor dwellers? Check out our blog post here all about the moving process!