Avoid Unwanted Guests: How to Treat Outdoor Plants Before Moving Them Inside
As nighttime temperatures start dipping into the 40s, it’s a signal that any plants you’ve enjoyed outdoors this summer need to come indoors for the fall and winter. But before making that transition, it’s crucial to give them some TLC to ensure they’re pest-free. Spending months outside can expose plants to a variety of pests, both on the leaves and in the soil. Taking steps to treat your plants now will protect your home from potential pest invasions—and keep your other indoor plants safe from becoming the next host.
Step 1: Inspect for Pests
Start by giving each plant a close inspection. Look for any visible signs of insects on the leaves, stems, and soil surface. Pay special attention to the undersides of leaves, as pests often hide there.
Step 2: Treat the Leaves and Soil
To thoroughly clean and treat the plant, spray the foliage with an insecticidal soap or one of our recommended products below. Make sure to cover both the top and underside of the leaves, as pests and their eggs can hide in these hard-to-spot areas. Don’t forget to treat the soil, as some pests can lay eggs there and make it their winter home!
Here are three products we recommend for safe and effective pest control:
All Seasons Horticultural Spray Oil – This oil is a top choice for organic gardening and provides season-round control of overwintering eggs and pests. Use it as a spray on leaves or dormant branches to control red spiders, aphids, whitefly, mealy bugs, and more. It’s safe for use on fruit trees, shade trees, ornamentals, roses, and vegetables.
Fertilome Triple Action Plus – Known for its versatility, this product kills insect eggs, larvae, and adults, targeting pests like whiteflies, aphids, spider mites, and scale. It’s effective on a wide range of pests, including beetles, tent caterpillars, squash bugs, and many more. A great choice for comprehensive insect control.
Captain Jack’s Deadbug Brew – Approved for organic gardening, this brew contains Spinosad® and kills a variety of insect pests on listed vegetables, fruits, and ornamentals. It’s effective against bagworms, caterpillars, leaf miners, and thrips, providing strong pest control without harsh chemicals.
Step 3: Monitor and Isolate
Once your plants are treated, bring them inside, but keep them separated from other indoor plants for a few weeks to ensure no pests survived. Continue to monitor them for any new signs of pests.
By taking the time to treat your plants before bringing them indoors, you’re not only protecting your home from unwanted pests but also safeguarding your other indoor plants. This simple preparation helps create a healthy indoor environment, keeping both your plants and your space pest-free.
