Although most varieties of Aeonium are considered hardy in USDA zones 9-11, the vast majority are grown as houseplants for most of the year. Mainly this is because the climates in zones 9-11 are more likely to have humidity levels higher than these Mediterranean natives prefer. Moving the plants outdoors in late spring and summer gives them the high light levels that they crave while being one of the most maintenance-free plants you can grow.
Aeonium is great for giving any space a tropical or Mediterranean feel. The tightly whirled foliage and a wide variety of colors are very attractive mixed in with other tropical houseplants on summer vacation outside or planted (temporarily) amongst more cold hardy succulents and xeric herbaceous perennials in a rock garden.
When To Put Aeonium Outside
Aeonium is safe to move outdoors when the nighttime temperatures are above 50F (10C) regularly. This is typically also when heat-loving plants such as tomatoes, peppers, and basil are planted. Aeonium is able to tolerate hot temperatures through the summer, especially in dry climate areas that do not have regular summer rains.
When To Bring Aeonium Indoors
Once the nighttime temperatures begin to fall in late summer it is time to begin acclimating your plant to return to the indoor environment. Temperatures regularly around 50F (10C) are a good range that allows time to quarantine or acclimate your plant without the risk of overnight frosts or freezes that would cause severe damage.
Check for signs of pests or disease before introducing your plant back indoors where houseplants are close and more likely to spread problems to one another. Treat the Aeonium and keep well away from healthy plants until all signs of the infestation are gone.
Caring For Aeonium Outdoors
Aeoniums naturally are in a period of semi-dormancy during the longest days of the year. They only are in active growth during the fall and spring months, which is also the time they are most likely to be indoors. Aeoniums outdoors will still require bright light but need protection from the hottest part of the day and thrive in a partial shade or dappled shade location.
Slow acclimation is key to preserving their intense and often deep foliage colors. The quality and intensity of outdoor light means that moving Aeoniums immediately to full sun will burn and scorch leaves. Take up to a week to slowly move the plants from a sheltered full shade location to a partial or dappled shade spot.
Daily watering is not necessary and is likely to harm the root system. Planting Aeonium in a container with other outdoor succulents is effective and generally successful. Planting Aeonium alongside perennials or annuals that need regular watering will result in a plant that does not survive the summer.
Make sure the pot your Aeonium is in is out of the way of downspouts or automatic sprinkler zones as they need watering very rarely in the summer months. Protect with a cloche or move to a sheltered location if heavy thunderstorms and rains are predicted
Sources: “Succulents Factsheet”. Polk County Extension. www.blog.ifas.ufl.edu
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Author Robbin Small - Published 12-27-2024 |