Can I put my Succulents outside yet?
Is it too cold to put my succulents outside in the UK?
The days are getting longer, the temperatures are warming, and it’s finally time to start thinking about bringing your beloved succulents outside after a long winter indoors. Succulents make fantastic house guests and don’t NEED to be put outside for the summer months. However, they do absolutely THIVE on a summer holiday! With the opportunity for fresh air, un-filtered light and lovely fresh rain water you will likely see much more growth than you would if kept indoors.
Before you just plop them down on your patio and bask in the sunshine, there are a few things you should consider to make sure you are not putting your collection at risk.
With weather and climate varying greatly across the UK, there is no ‘1 size fits all’ answer. We experience significantly milder temperatures here in Pembrokeshire compared with locations further North such as Liverpool or Norwich.
Getting to know your own location is key.
Here are some key questions to ask that will help you decide when the time is right for you
Are your night time temperatures consistently above freezing?
Unless you want to be bringing your succulents back inside every other day, it is a good idea to wait until nighttime temperatures are consistently above freezing. Averaging at least 5 degrees at night is a good starting point.
Are your mornings consistently frost free?
Another good sign that it’s ok to move succulents outside is that your mornings are consistently frost free. No scraping car windows or even a little still settled on the ground at first light.
Are you prepared to monitor the weather and bring them in or cover them if there’s a late cold spell?
Even in sunny Pembrokeshire we’ve had surprise cold spells as late as April. I know other parts of the UK can get frost well into May! Your succulents will absolutely love being outside for the most part… but you need to keep your eye on the ball with the weather.
We do try and mail out and post online when there are any major changes in the weather expected. However, the UK has such localised weather systems (especially with us having so much coastline!).
Do you have a South facing spot in the garden they get good light all day?
Succulents thrive on sunlight and warmth. They are desert loving creatures and amidst the rain and wind we get in the UK you need to maximise the amount of sunshine they receive.
A South facing spot is most ideal as they get sunshine all day long as the sun travels from East to West. This will help them keep their beautiful colours and make sure that they dry out regularly before the next British deluge of rain arrives.
South East facing can work well too. Getting that sunrise light first thing in the morning will melt away any un-forecast frost and start drying them off as quickly as possible.
Do you have a South facing wall or fence to put them up against that will protect against any cold North Winds?
When it gets particularly cold in the UK you can almost guarantee it’s because weather systems are pushing in from the cold North. Putting the plants up against a barrier to the North is a great way to protect them.
Your house is often a great wall to use in this respect. The added temperature from your internal heating and appliances won’t go under appreciated by your succulent gang!
Are your succulents in soil that has larger particles mixed in to help with drainage?
Gravel, grit, crushed shell and perlite are all great examples of material that can be added to compost to support in good drainage. These larger particles help to create channels for the water to drain away.
Succulents enjoy a good drink, but they don’t like to sit in water. Drainage is super important for any containers that will be making their way into the Great British outdoors for summer.
Do your containers and trays have holes in them so the water can drain away freely?
“There’s a hole in my bucket…Dear Liza ..Dear Liza”…. Lots of holes! Holes in the pots and holes in any trays that they are standing in. Super important to ensure the water can drain away from the roots as mentioned above.
Do you have a surface with good drainage to stand them on?
Gravel, Sand and sloped paths are all great surfaces that help the water run away from underneath the plants. If you choose to stand them on moisture retaining surfaces such as soil, grass or wood you may get problems with water pooling underneath your containers. Succulents don’t like soggy bottoms!
Bonus tip!
Acclimatisation is key
Start with a Soft Touch: Begin by placing your succulents outside for a few hours a day. Opt for filtered morning sun rather than harsh afternoon rays.
Gradually Increase the Dose: Over a week or two, slowly extend the amount of time your succulents spend outdoors. Increase it by an hour or two each day.
That’s all for now! If you’ve made it this far, you clearly care! We have every faith your plant parenthood journey is going be a success this spring. Remember, even the greenest thumbs started somewhere, so don’t be discouraged by a hiccup here or there. Keep observing your plants, learning from any mishaps, and most importantly, have fun!
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