Many homeowners may assume since artificial plants require minimal care that placing them outside is just a set-it and forget-it process. However, it’s important to keep in mind that many replica plants are made from materials that can be damaged through exposure to outdoor elements. and that is why we bring you this guide on How to Care For Outdoor Artificial Plants
Many of the plastic and fabric materials that artificial plants consist of can suffer weather damage that compromises their cosmetic value and structural integrity. Rain and UV rays from the sun can become serious problems in the care for outdoor artificial plants after long exposure times. Continue reading for a comprehensive guide to caring for artificial plants outdoors, as well as arrangement and placement tips.
The biggest problem artificial plants have from being outdoors is color fading from long periods of exposure. The leaves can easily crack or peel on your artificial plants and tree, rendering them almost useless. How can you protect your plants from fading and cracking?
The most important step is to remove all debris and dirt from your fake plants that can cause staining and discoloration. A can of keyboard duster can be used for its compressed air properties. This gives you the ability to blow all the foreign objects and dirt from the surface of your plants. For difficult dirt and debris, a wet rag with a gentle dish detergent can help remove built up grime.
After a thorough cleaning, you should think about moving your faux plants to a safer area. Keeping your plants under an awning or some type of shade will prevent the color from fading. When caring for your artificial plants, it’s also a good idea to turn the plants regularly to prevent wearing and fading on one side of the plant.
To best prevent fading – for all exterior applications of artificial trees, plants and greenery, you should look for products that are UV proof or made with UV resistant foliage.
Many fake plant owners question the types of cleaning products that can be used for fake plants. If you’ve kept your artificial plants outdoors for some time, chances are they’ve become stained. There is a simple solution to this problem.
Use a container and fill it with warm water. Add a capful of gentle dishwashing liquid and mix the water and soap by shaking the container. Gently spray the plants with this soap solution and wipe them down with a soft rag using extreme care. If the plants have been outside for a long period, they might become brittle.
Many artificial plants have been UV-treated before hitting the market. Some manufacturers apply a UV spray to artificial plants before they hit store shelves. This UV spray allows the plants to stand up against direct sunlight for a substantially longer period. The highest quality of exterior grade artificial plants will have a premium grade UV blocker added during the manufacturing stage and guarantees even protection and a dramatically increased lifespan outdoors in the elements.
Find out whether your plant was given any type of UV treatment. You can find this information by contacting the original manufacturer of the plant, or the website of the store you bought them from.
There are many variables including sunlight, geographical location, humidity, extreme weather patterns that can shorten the life span of even UV treated artificial trees and plants. If they haven’t been UV-treated they may only last a few years or a few months. UV resistant replica trees and plants can last well over a decade in ideal conditions. Untreated artificial plants are only designed for outdoor use for very short periods of time, so use extreme caution when placing un-treated artificial plants outdoors.
There are more options for arrangement styles when you place artificial plants outdoors. You can experiment with different varieties of plants and in different configurations and place them in expected or unusual environments for a bit of whimsy and surprise.
Using artificial flower beds or hanging window boxes can add a beautiful element to your outdoor design. Experiment with different layers and varieties of color to make your yard brighter.
Artificial shrubs are great for giving your yard a border or designated shape. Placing mulch around these faux shrubs makes them more realistic and adds to the illusion!
Faux ivy can add a beautiful natural element to the side of a brick home. Use the faux ivy to mimic the effect of climbing vines.
Using artificial plants outdoors is a viable option when exercising the correct methods of care and selecting the appropriate level of UV protection. Keep a backup set of outdoor plants so you can rotate them for a few months at a time to extend their life. It’s a great idea to have a set of indoor plants and outdoor plants that you can use interchangeably!
