When those first rays of spring sun start hitting your face, you know it’s time—gardening season is officially back! And just like us, your exotic cacti are probably itching to get out of the house. To make sure their move to the great outdoors goes smoothly, there are a few things you should keep in mind. Here’s the lowdown on when and how to let your prickly pals enjoy the fresh air.
Moving Cacti Outdoors: Summer is Better in the Fresh Air
Let’s be real: pretty much every cactus would rather spend the warm summer months outside than live life as a dusty houseplant. The window for moving these desert survivors outdoors usually opens up in May. Since most cacti aren’t built for freezing temperatures, even the toughest desert varieties need to be moved to a cozy winter shelter during the off-season.
Don’t be in too much of a rush to drag them out of hibernation, though. Spring weather can be fickle, and late-season frosts are notorious for sneaking up on us in early May. To be safe, it’s best to wait until the danger of frost has completely passed (usually mid-May) before moving them outdoors for good.
Pro Tip: If you’re impatient, you can start giving your cacti some “day trips” in the sun starting in mid-April. Just make sure to bring them back inside behind glass before the sun goes down!
Moving Cacti Outdoors: A Handy Gadget for Temperature Checks
If you want to take the guesswork out of the timing, grab yourself a min-max thermometer. These handy gadgets record the lowest temperature reached during the night. Check it the next morning: if the mercury stayed above 50°F (10°C) all night, your cacti are officially cleared to stay outside 24/7.
Hardening Off Your Cacti: Preventing Sunburn
Even though they look tough, you can’t just throw your cacti from a dark corner straight into the blazing sun. Believe it or not, despite their thick skin, succulents can get a nasty sunburn if they aren’t acclimated. To keep them safe, follow these steps for a smooth transition:
- The first 1-2 weeks: Place them in a partially shaded spot.
- After 14 days: Move desert cacti to their permanent sunny home.
- For leaf cacti (like Christmas or Orchid cacti): It’s best to keep them in partial shade all summer.
One last thing: don’t forget about rain protection! Cacti hate sitting in soggy soil. Try to find a spot under a roof overhang or an awning. If that’s not an option, a small DIY cover made of greenhouse film or frosted glass can work wonders to keep the rain off and prevent root rot.
