What’s the Difference Between Indoor Plants and Outdoor Plants?

Indoor plants and outdoor plants have more differences than just where they’re located. Some do better inside because they don’t need too much sunlight and water, but are vulnerable to the elements, pests, and diseases that are more common outdoors. If you’re considering moving some of your gardening projects indoors or would even like to have something to do during the colder months without going outside, indoor plants might be a better option for you than outdoor plants.

The experts at Pioneer Landscape Centers can explain the important differences.

Indoor Plants vs. Outdoor Plants: The Differences

When considering the differences between indoor and outdoor plants, there are a few key considerations to take into account. Indoor plants typically require more attention than outdoor plants, though this attention – depending on the plant – can be easier to give. While they need to be regularly watered, fertilized, and checked for pests or diseases, you can keep the materials inside and do not have to prepare for the outdoor environment.

In addition, outdoor plants usually have more access to nutrients found in soil, which helps them grow larger than the average indoor plant. If you’re looking for something large, most indoor plants are not for you, but definitely for anyone looking for something small. 

Additionally, while indoor plants require more attention than outdoor plants, they can help purify the air in your home. They can also make beautiful decorations that bring any room to life. As long as you select the right plants and give them the care they need, you can enjoy indoor or outdoor plants as part of your home. 

Indoor Plants vs. Outdoor Plants: What Can You Plant

Not every plant is one or the other. Some plants can thrive both indoors and outdoors. The good thing about indoor plants, though, is that because they are inside and protected from the elements, there are fewer restrictions on plants when it comes to considering Arizona’s and Colorado’s climate:

• Spider Plant: Named after the arachnid, it has long, arching leaves that are green and white.
• Snake Plant: This plant is incredibly hardy and can tolerate a wide range of lighting conditions. The ribbed appearance of its leaves gained it its name.
• Rubber Plant: This plant is popular for its shiny, dark green leaves and for being one of the largest indoor plants you can keep. While it can grow quite large, it can also be pruned back to keep it at a manageable size for indoor spaces.
• Pothos: Also known as "devil's ivy," this plant is extremely hardy and can tolerate a wide range of light conditions and neglect. It's perfect for beginners and can be grown both indoors and outdoors because of its adversity against varying light conditions.
• Aloe Vera: This plant is well-known for its medicinal properties, and it's also an excellent indoor/outdoor plant. It prefers bright, indirect light and doesn't require much water.

Plants That Are Better as Indoor Plants

While plants that can be raised inside can also be raised outside, after years of raising them indoors, they have evolved to prefer the indoor environments of our home. Here are some that live much longer and healthier lives indoors than they do outdoors. 

• Peace Lily: This plant is not only beautiful, with its glossy leaves and white flowers, but it's also known for its ability to clean the air. It can thrive both indoors and outdoors, provided it's not exposed to direct sunlight. Due to its aversion to direct sunlight, it’s usually better to keep it indoors.
• Fiddle-Leaf Fig: While it's often seen as an indoor plant, it can also thrive outdoors in the right conditions. It’s easier to take care of as an indoor plant.

Remember that even though these plants are well-suited to indoor conditions, they still require proper care to thrive, including the right amount of water, light, and appropriate temperatures.

Contact Pioneer Landscaping for Help With Your Indoor and Outdoor Plants

Indoor plants are not just decorative elements that add a touch of nature to your living space. They can have a significant impact on both your physical and mental well-being. Indoor plants can purify the air, reduce stress, improve productivity, and contribute to a healthier lifestyle overall. With their wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, there's an indoor plant to suit everyone's aesthetic preferences. So, whether you're a seasoned gardener or a first-time plant parent, consider adding indoor plants to your home or office. It's a small change that can make a big difference in your quality of life.

If you need help collecting any of the materials you need to start keeping indoor plants, talk to your local Pioneer Landscaping Centers. Our experts can help you find everything you need in terms of mulch, soil, tools, and more. Contact us today.