Acclimating tropicals back indoors for the fall / winter

I was talking with my neighbor the other day and noticed she still had her Ficus tree outside on her deck.  I reminded her that it is important that it come back in now, in September.  Acclimation is important, but getting the ficus protected from upcoming cold nights is more important.

If you have any indoor plants still out on your deck or patio please get them in, if you want to winter them over. Before you bring them in you may want to check for pests, though.  Look on the new growth and on the undersides of the leaves and see if you can see any insects.  If you do, water it well and later that day when the sun is not on it, spray it good with an insecticidal soap.  Start at the bottom of the plant on the underside of the leaves and on top, and work your way up until the plant is well sprayed.  You may have to do this again in 5 to 10 days. 

Also, wipe down the pot and remove the top 2” of soil and replace it with fresh potting soil.  Most insects will use the top inch or two of soil to live in. 

Photo credit.