September is the time to bring your houseplants back indoors before the cool nights

As September winds down, gardeners who let their houseplants enjoy the outdoors all summer need to start bringing them inside before the cool nights, advises the specialist site Gardening Know How.

Why move them before the cold nights?

Summer tropicals often put on great growth outdoors. But the first cool nights can trigger cold shock and leaf drop — or worse — if you wait too long. A gentle transition is the safer path.

Inspect before bringing them in

Before reintroducing your plants, check them carefully: mealybugs, aphids and other pests can hide under leaves or in the soil. A good rinse of the foliage helps keep pests out of the house.

Shorter days change everything

As University of Minnesota Extension notes, the shrinking daylight signals some plants that it's time to go dormant — common in tropical species such as hibiscus, ficus and citrus trees. An adjustment period and reduced watering will help them through the transition.

Sources: Gardening Know How — Houseplants · UMN Extension — Bringing houseplants in for winter