Gradual acclimation is non-negotiable.

Yes, move them outside, but only after a slow, week-long transition.

Houseplants are accustomed to indoor conditions – stable temperature, indirect light, no wind. Putting them directly into full sun and spring breezes is the horticultural equivalent of throwing a cave dweller into Times Square. They’ll drop leaves, get sunburned, and sulk for weeks.

Start the process after nighttime temps stay above 50°F. Pick a shady, sheltered spot. Day one: bring the plant out for 1–2 hours. Then bring it back inside. Each day, add an hour or two of outdoor time and move it slightly into brighter light over the course of a week to ten days. Keep an eye on the weather – wind and temperature swings are the real shockers.

It’s boring and it takes discipline. But this is where people either get lush summer growth or a crispy corpse by Memorial Day.