Most houseplants flourish with a little time outside in the summer. One of the keys to their success lies in where you place them outside. Many houseplants are not acclimated to full sun, so care should be taken to place them in spaces where they will receive filtered light and not be exposed to extreme temperatures, wind, or hard rains. Porches or patios that have some overhead protection are great places. I have good luck giving my ferns, begonias, jasmines, and other plants a summer vacation outside under the canopy of the oak trees, on the deck, and tucked in my shade gardens.

When summer’s end is near and the evenings are becoming cool again, it is time to bring the plants back inside. Keep in mind that it will be dry for them in your house, compared with the humidity of the outside. You may find that there will be some dieback until they get used to being back inside in lower humidity and light conditions. When you bring your plants back inside, wash them off well with a warm spray of water and inspect them regularly for insects.