The phrase 'house plant' typically refers to exactly that – greenery that (literally) breathes life into interiors. However, we are firm believers that house plants can be used as decor both in and outside the home.
Take Reese Witherspoon, for example. The Legally Blonde and Big Little Lies star recently shared a clip to her Instagram page of herself sitting on her gray, painted painted porch next to a potted Monstera plant. While this plant is a highly popular choice inside the home, it looks just as vivid and natural on an outdoor platform.
According to experts, warm weather is a welcome invitation to transition indoor plants to our porches and backyards.
'Knowing when to move houseplants outdoors is important and can help to keep your treasured indoor plants in good shape,' says Gardens content editor at Homes & Gardens, Thom Rutter. 'As Reese Witherspoon shows, many plants that we grow indoors can take a turn outside during the spring and summer months. As the temperatures rise and the evenings are mild, there is little risk posed to your plants.'
Not only do plants add some color to our homes' exteriors, but they also can provide the plants themselves some natural benefits.
'Moving plants outdoors can help to give indoor plants a boost, and with more sunshine, they will typically photosynthesize more, producing new and fresh growth,' Rutter explains. 'What's more, fresh air and humidity are also good for your plants, and some time outside can help combat any pests, including gnats or small fruit flies.'
Care should be considered when moving an indoor plant outside; as the climate and surroundings change, so does the maintenance.
'While you might be confident growing monstera indoors, it is best not to shock your plant when moving it outdoors,' says Rutter. 'Move your plants outside on a warm, dry day, and keep them outside for as long as you like. Small amounts of rain will not hurt the plants, but if the weather turns stormy or the rain is torrential, I would bring the plants back indoors.'
He continues, 'When the temperatures drop towards the end of summer, bring your plants back indoors, as they won't thank you for being left outside when the evenings turn cold.'
Monstera plants are available to purchase from Walmart below.
This Witherspoon-inspired Monstera has large leaves that instantly add life to a brightly lit room at home, a lightly shaded porch (as she does), or a home office.
