More and more people love the look of plants but lack a green thumb and the time for upkeep. Artificial plants are a good solution, but will they survive outdoors?
Yes, you can put artificial plants outside. However, you need to choose UV-resistant plants, provide adequate drainage, protect them from sun and extreme weather, and perform regular cleaning and maintenance. Let's explore how to ensure your artificial greenery thrives, regardless of the weather.
Can You Put Artificial Plants Outside?
Absolutely, you can put artificial plants and flowers outside! Many artificial plant options are designed to withstand outdoor conditions. The critical factor is the material of the plants. Some plants are made with materials that my fade easily or become brittle when exposed to sunlight and the elements.
You can look for plants specifically labeled as "UV-resistant" or "outdoor." These have been treated with special anti-UV coatings or made from raw materials that are less susceptible to damage from the sun's rays. Choosing the correct type saves you money and ensures a longer lifespan.
What Are the Common Challenges for Outdoor Artificial Plants?
It is worrying when seeing new, beautiful plants degrade outdoors. People get annoyed at having to replace the outdoor fake plants frequently.
The biggest challenges for outdoor artificial plants are UV exposure, weather, and debris. UV rays will cause fading. Rain, wind, and snow can lead to damage. And, accumulated dirt will make plants look unrealistic.
Let's break down the challenges that are faced:
Fading and Discoloration Due to UV Exposure:
UV ray is a significant enemy of artificial plants. Over time, ultraviolet (UV) radiation break down the chemical bonds in the dyes and materials of faux plants, leading to fading and discoloration.
Weather:
Rain can pool in planters without adequate drainage, creating a breeding ground for mold and mildew. Wind can topple and damage plants. Ice and snow can cause brittleness and breakage. Extreme temperature fluctuations also stress the outdoor plants.
Dust, Dirt, and Debris:
Just like any outdoor surface, artificial plants accumulate dirt, dust, pollen, and debris. This buildup not only makes the plants look dull and unrealistic but can also contribute to the deterioration of the materials.
Choose UV-Resistant Artificial Plants:
Everyone wants a plant that won't fade quickly in the sun. Remember to choose artificial plants specifically labeled as UV-resistant. These plants are manufactured with anti-UV materials and coatings that protect against the damaging effects of the sun's rays.
UV resistance is paramount. It's not just about maintaining the plants’ color; it's about the plant’ structural integrity. UV degradation will make plastics brittle and prone to cracking. Look for UV resistant certifications or ask the manufacturer about the UV stabilizers used. These stabilizers built in the raw materials absorb or reflect UV radiation, preventing it from reaching the underlying materials. .
Stabilize the Plants:
Wind is a always a problem for outdoor plants. People worry about that artificial plants will blow away or tip over, causing damage. Remember to secure your plants! You can use heavy pots, add weight to the base, or even anchor them to the ground using stakes or ties. This prevents plants movement and potential damage from winds.
Click here to clear about how to Easy Solutions to Secure Outdoor Artificial Plants in Pots
Keep Artificial Plants from Fading in the Sun
Even with UV-resistant plants, fading may occur over time, it is frustrating. Is there a solution that extends the vibrant look of their plants.
Yes, you can apply a UV-resistant spray. This will create an additional protective barrier, further reducing the impact of UV rays and prolonging the plant's color and appearance. You can test the spray on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t alter the plant’s texture or shine.
Drainage for Outdoor Artificial Plants
You might not realize that rain can damage even artificial plants. Water accumulation is also a hidden danger for artificial plants. While artificial plants don't need watering, rain can still collect in their containers. The accumulated water can create a breeding ground for mold and mildew.
Water can also damage the pot itself, especially if it's made of a porous material like terracotta.
Proper drainage is essential for artificial plants! You can use pots with drainage holes, and consider adding a layer of gravel or rocks at the bottom of the pot before adding the planting medium. If your pot doesn't have holes, you can drill them yourself.
Protect Artificial Plants from Extreme Weather
While UV-resistant and well-stabilized plants can handle most weather conditions, extreme weather presents a greater challenge. If possible, you can bring plants indoors during severe weather events like heavy storms, extreme heat, or freezing temperatures. This will provide the best protection.
In regions with harsh winters or extreme weather conditions, you can remove and store artificial plants during off-seasons to protect them from snow, ice, and strong winds. You can store plants in a cool, dry place, and wrap them in protective covers to prevent bending or tangling.
The best way to protect your outdoor plants during extreme weather is to bring them indoors. If that's not possible, you can cover them with a tarp or other protective material.
Rotate and Clean Plants Regularly
Uneven exposure to the elements can cause some plastic plants to fade or look dirtier than others. You can rotate your plants periodically to ensure even exposure to sunlight and weather.
The frequency of rotation depends on the location and the intensity of the sun. You can rotate them every few months. This helps to ensure that all sides of the faux plants receive similar exposure to sunlight, preventing uneven fading.
Dust, dirt, and pollutants can accumulate on plants, making them look less realistic and may causing discoloration. Cleaning is essential for keeping the realistic appearance of your artificial plants. You can use a mild soap solution and a soft cloth or brush and clean the leaves and stems. You can also rinse with a hose, avoiding high-pressure water that could damage delicate parts.
FAQ:
1: Where to Place Artificial Plants to Minimize Weather Damage?
You can place artificial plants under natural shade structures like pergolas, awnings, or trees to reduce direct exposure to sunlight and minimize UV damage and heat-related wear.
2: The longevity of the Outdoor artificial plants?
High-quality artificial plants featuring superior materials and construction techniques are more resilient to outdoor conditions. Some outdoor plants can last for 5-10 years.
