Question

Spider Plant   I have a spider plant that has been outside on my porch all summer. I brought it back into the house as it is getting colder out side. The leaves are turning yellow! It rained before I brought it in so it has plenty of water. Why are leaves turning yellow?
I live in East TX.
Thanks for any advice.
Sincerely,
Esperanza

Answer
Hi Esperanza,

I know it is a common practice to summer houseplants outdoors, but I don't usually recommend it. The intensity of light outdoors is many times greater than indoor sunlight. Plants struggle to adapt to big changes in light.  That is what is happening with yours. The leaves that are adapted to outdoor light are now slowly dying. However, they will be replaced by smaller, greener new leaves that will be adapted to the reduced indoor light. Of course, after it makes this adaptation, it will have to do so all over again if you move it outside next spring.

Keep your Spider Plant in your sunniest indoor location and be careful not to over water. Remove older leaves as they start to yellow because they will never regain their healthy green color.

I have written an article on moving plants outside that I will email for free to you (or anyone else) who emails a request to me at [email protected]. I have also written an indoor plant care book in a PDF format that I can sell you if you contact me at my email address.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

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Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

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