Indoor plants have become increasingly popular as people seek to bring a touch of nature into their homes. Among the most popular indoor plants is the Pothos plant, known for its beautiful foliage and ease of care. But what about taking your Pothos plant outside? Can it survive and thrive in an outdoor environment?
In this article, we will explore the advantages and disadvantages of growing Pothos outdoors, as well as some tips and tricks to ensure your plant has lush foliage all summer long.
Growing Pothos outdoors can be a great way to expand your greenery to the great outdoors, but it’s important to understand that Pothos plants are not suited for all climates and conditions. The first thing to consider is the climate in your area. Pothos plants thrive in warm, humid environments and do not do well in extreme temperatures or dry conditions.
Additionally, Pothos plants require specific soil conditions and prefer to be in a shaded area with indirect sunlight. By understanding the specific requirements of your Pothos plant, you can take the necessary steps to ensure its success in an outdoor environment.
Key Takeaways
- Pothos can only survive outside year-round in USDA Zones 10-12 and prefers temperatures between 65 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Pothos planted outdoors can grow huge, but may get sunburned and should be brought indoors once nocturnal temperatures get close to 50 degrees again.
- Advantages of growing Pothos outdoors include lush, vigorous growth and adding greenery to spaces, but it may become a nuisance plant or invasive species in some areas.
- Pothos can climb up trees, balconies, columns, trellises, gazebos, pergolas, and walls, but should be given something to climb right away or it may spread over a fair amount of ground.
Climate and Conditions
According to the pre-existing knowledge, growing pothos outdoors requires careful consideration of the climate and growing conditions. Pothos can only survive outside year-round in USDA Zones 10-12 and prefers temperatures between 65 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit. To ensure the plant’s survival, it is important to avoid temperatures below 50 degrees or above 100 degrees Fahrenheit. When planted outdoors, pothos should be placed in coarse soil with good drainage and watered only during long dry spells.
To achieve the best outdoor locations for pothos, it is important to choose areas with plenty of shade. Pothos growth will be faster outdoors, but it may require slightly more fertilizer and water. Common mistakes to avoid include exposing the plant to direct sunlight for more than 2-3 hours per day, failing to provide something for the plant to climb, and neglecting to inspect the plant regularly for pests and diseases.
Overall, with proper care and attention to the climate and conditions, pothos can thrive and provide a lush, green addition to any outdoor space.
Advantages and Disadvantages
One possible drawback of cultivating Pothos in an open-air environment is its propensity to become a problematic or invasive species in certain areas. While the plant’s vigorous growth and ability to climb walls and trees may be desirable for some, it can quickly become a nuisance in others. Pothos can spread rapidly and choke out native vegetation, disrupting local ecosystems. It is important to carefully consider the potential environmental impact before introducing Pothos to an outdoor space.
However, there are also several benefits to growing Pothos outdoors. First, the plant’s lush foliage can add a touch of greenery to any outdoor space, whether it be a balcony, wall, or trellis. Additionally, Pothos can grow much larger outdoors, with mature leaves reaching over a foot long. Finally, outdoor Pothos generally requires less maintenance than indoor plants, as it can benefit from natural rainfall and sunlight.
Overall, the benefits versus risks of growing Pothos outdoors should be carefully weighed before making a decision.
Indoor Care Transition
When transitioning an indoor Pothos plant to an outdoor living environment, it is crucial to do it gradually. Sudden exposure to direct sunlight and fresh air can cause the plant to go into shock, resulting in stunted growth or even death.
Begin by placing the potted plant in a shaded area outdoors for a few hours a day, gradually increasing the time spent in sunlight over the course of several weeks. This will allow the plant to adjust to the new lighting and temperature conditions, and prevent it from getting sunburned.
In addition to gradual transition, it is important to consider the amount of sunlight exposure the plant will receive. While Pothos prefers bright, indirect light indoors, direct sunlight exposure can cause its leaves to scorch.
When placing Pothos outdoors, choose a location with plenty of shade or partial sunlight. If the plant is in a sunny location, provide some shade during the hottest part of the day using a sheer curtain or by placing it under a tree.
By following these steps, you can ensure a successful transition for your Pothos plant from indoor to outdoor living.
Pest Control Techniques
To control pests on Pothos plants, there are a few effective methods that can be used outdoors.
Soaking the entire plant in mild, soapy water can be a great way to eliminate pests like spider mites and aphids. It’s important to make sure that the soapy water solution is gentle and that the Pothos is thoroughly rinsed off afterwards to avoid any damage to the plant’s foliage.
Another method that can be used for pest control on Pothos is spraying the leaves with neem oil. Neem oil is a natural insecticide that can be particularly effective against pests like mealybugs, scale, and whiteflies. When using neem oil, it’s important to make sure that the Pothos is sprayed thoroughly, and to avoid using too much oil, as this can cause damage to the plant’s leaves.
By using these techniques, pests can be effectively controlled on outdoor Pothos plants, allowing them to thrive and produce lush, healthy foliage.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Pothos be grown in areas with high humidity?
Pothos can be grown in areas with high humidity, which benefits its growth by reducing the need for frequent watering and promoting lush foliage. The best outdoor locations for pothos include tropical and subtropical climates with decent moisture levels.
Is it necessary to prune Pothos grown outdoors?
Pruning outdoor pothos is not necessary but can improve the plant’s appearance and health. Benefits of pruning include promoting fuller growth and reducing the risk of disease. Maintenance requirements for outdoor pothos include occasional pruning to remove dead or damaged leaves and stems.
How often should Pothos be fertilized when grown outdoors?
Fertilization frequency for Pothos grown outdoors depends on the soil amendments used. Slow-release fertilizers can be applied every three months, while liquid or water-soluble fertilizers can be applied every two weeks during the growing season.
Can Pothos be grown in containers outdoors?
Pothos can be grown in containers outdoors, making it easier to move them indoors as temperatures drop. The benefits of outdoor container gardening with pothos include adding greenery to small spaces and controlling the plant’s growth. Use a well-draining soil mix for best results.
What are some companion plants that can be grown alongside Pothos outdoors?
The benefits of companion planting with pothos include improved soil health, repelling pests, and enhancing the beauty of the garden. Best companion plants for pothos include ferns, spider plants, and philodendrons.
