‘Housebreaking’ your plants

Container-grown tropical plants commonly are placed outside for the summer, where they provide a beautiful addition to decks, patios and porches. But these plants will not withstand freezing temperatures and must be brought back inside for the winter.
About four weeks before you intend to bring them inside, move outdoor tropicals in containers to well shaded locations outside. Acclimating them to lower light conditions helps them adjust to the reduced light available inside most homes.
Houseplants that spent the summer outside should be groomed so they will look their best, and you will be less likely to bring pests inside with the plants by taking a good look at them while grooming.
•Clean the outside of containers using a brush and a mild solution of dishwashing liquid and water. Add a little bleach to the solution to kill algae growing on the pot. But do not get this solution in the soil.
•Hose down the plants, and wipe the foliage clean with a soft damp cloth to remove dust and debris.
•Remove all dead or yellow foliage, old flower stalks and dead or injured branches and stems.
•If you discover insect infestations, spray the plants with the appropriate insecticides to control the problem before you bring plants indoors.

DeLane Ross is assistant county agent for St. Martin and Iberia parishes. Contact him at 337-332-2181 or via email at delane_ross@suagcenter.com.