Indoor Oasis: 8 Outdoor Garden Plants That Thrive Indoors
Are you tired of saying goodbye to your beloved outdoor garden plants every winter? It can be heartbreaking to watch them wither away in the cold. But fear not, many of these plants can actually thrive indoors all year round!
Shade-tolerant plants are excellent choices for indoor gardening, as homes generally have less light than outdoor gardens. However, there are a few factors to consider when bringing outdoor plants inside, such as cooler indoor temperatures and humidity levels. Tropical plants, in particular, may require extra care and attention when transitioning from outdoor to indoor environments.
To help you successfully transition your outdoor garden plants into thriving houseplants, we’ve curated a list of 8 plants that are perfect for indoor cultivation. These plants not only add a touch of greenery to your home but also bring a refreshing outdoor vibe indoors.
Tips for Indoor Gardening Success
Before we delve into the specific plants, here are some essential tips to help you acclimate your outdoor plants to indoor conditions successfully:
- Start by acclimating outdoor plants gradually by bringing them indoors while the windows are still open to bridge the change in conditions.
- Check plants for pests before bringing them indoors. Remove pests with a strong spray of water or use insecticidal soap for serious infestations.
Now, let’s explore these 8 outdoor garden plants that make excellent indoor companions:
Begonias
Begonias are a popular choice among plant breeders for their unique colors, patterns, and textures, making them perfect indoor foliage plants. Rex begonias, in particular, are known for their striking appearance. While begonias prefer high humidity, you can help them thrive indoors by growing them on a pebble tray.
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Fuchsia
Despite their tropical appearance, fuchsias actually enjoy cooler temperatures in the 60 to 70 degree Fahrenheit range. These plants benefit from a winter rest, so don’t be alarmed if they don’t bloom much during the colder months. Bring fuchsias indoors before frost sets in, trim them to about 6 inches, and place them in a cool spot with low light.
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Geraniums (Pelargonium)
Geraniums have been a favorite for overwintering among gardeners. If you have a bright, south-facing window, you can enjoy blooming geraniums all winter long. Make sure to provide them with 14 to 16 hours of light per day to encourage winter blooms.
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Abutilon (Flowering Maple)
Abutilon, also known as the flowering or parlor maple, is a tropical shrub that thrives in indoor environments. Keep your abutilon in bright light, away from drafts, and maintain warm temperatures of 65 degrees Fahrenheit or higher. Prune lightly in the fall to promote blooming in early to mid-spring.
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Coleus (Plectranthus scutellarioides)
Seed-grown coleus varieties that prefer shade make excellent indoor houseplants. If your outdoor coleus plants are too large to bring indoors, you can easily root cuttings to propagate new plants. Remember to pinch off any flowers to keep the plants bushy and full.
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Tropical Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)
Hibiscus plants thrive indoors with bright, direct sunlight. If you don’t have a sunny window, you can place them in a cooler spot with average light, allowing them to go dormant. Keep an eye out for aphids and trim the plants as needed to maintain their shape.
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Hot Peppers
Peppers are tropical perennials that can keep producing fruit indoors for several years. Smaller hot pepper varieties are easier to bring indoors, but any pepper plant is worth a try. Watch out for aphids and fungus gnats and consider adding artificial light to support fruit production.
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Herbs: Basil, Chives, Parsley, Lemon Grass, Rosemary
Many herbs thrive indoors, making them ideal candidates for your indoor garden. Annual and biennial herbs like basil and parsley can be started from young plants for best results. Perennials like lemongrass and rosemary can be easily moved between outdoor and indoor environments.
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With these 8 outdoor garden plants that thrive indoors, you can create a lush indoor oasis that brings the beauty of the outdoors into your home. Experiment with different plants, care for them according to their specific needs, and enjoy the rewards of successful indoor gardening. Happy gardening!
