Can You Grow A Shangri La Pothos Outdoors?

Shangri La Pothos, with their whimsical, twisted leaves, are a trendy choice for plant lovers looking to add some character to their indoor spaces. But what if you're itching to take these quirky beauties outdoors? Is it possible to grow a Shangri La Pothos outside? Well, let's dig into the details and see if your outdoor garden could become the new home for this unique plant.

This article will cover everything you need to know about growing Shangri La Pothos outdoors. We'll explore the basics of their ideal environment, tips for transitioning them from inside to outside, and how to care for them once they're in the great outdoors. By the end, you'll have a good understanding of whether your garden is ready to welcome this captivating plant.

Understanding the Shangri La Pothos

Before we get into whether you can grow a Shangri La Pothos outdoors, let's chat about what makes this plant special. With its funky, curled leaves and vining nature, this plant is a standout among its pothos relatives. It's a bit like the rebellious cousin of the common Golden Pothos, refusing to conform to the straight-and-narrow leaf shape.

Native to the Solomon Islands, the Shangri La Pothos thrives in warm, humid climates. This background gives us some clues about what kind of conditions it might appreciate if grown outside. Indoors, it's relatively easy to care for, requiring indirect sunlight and well-draining soil. But when you're considering an outdoor setup, there are a few more factors to think about.

It's important to remember that while pothos plants are generally hardy, the Shangri La variety can be a bit more sensitive to environmental changes. So, if you decide to take the plunge and move it outside, you'll need to mimic its natural habitat as closely as possible. This means paying attention to temperature, humidity, and light conditions.

Climate Considerations for Outdoor Growth

When thinking about moving your Shangri La Pothos outdoors, one of the first things to consider is the climate. This plant is used to tropical conditions, so if you live in a location with cold winters or dry summers, you might need to think twice.

Ideally, Shangri La Pothos prefer temperatures between 65°F and 85°F. Temperatures below 50°F can cause stress, leading to stunted growth or even damage. If you live in USDA hardiness zones 10-12, which cover parts of the southern United States, you might be in luck. These regions offer a climate that's more in line with the plant's natural preferences.

But what if you live outside these zones? Well, you can still grow Shangri La Pothos outdoors, but you might need to bring them inside during colder months. Think of it as giving your plant a little vacation indoors when the weather turns chilly.

Humidity is another factor to keep in mind. Shangri La Pothos love humidity, so if your outdoor space is dry, consider adding a little moisture with a misting routine or a nearby water feature. Just like some people enjoy a good steam room, your plant will appreciate the extra humidity.

Finding the Right Spot

Once you've determined that your climate is suitable, the next step is to find the perfect spot for your Shangri La Pothos. This plant isn't a fan of direct sunlight, so you'll need to look for a location with bright, indirect light. Too much direct sun can scorch the leaves, leaving them looking a bit crispy.

If your garden is more on the sunny side, consider placing your plant in a spot that gets dappled sunlight, like under a tree or a pergola. These areas can provide just the right amount of light without overwhelming the plant.

Another option is to use a shade cloth to diffuse the sunlight. This can be especially useful if you have a sunny patio or balcony. A little bit of creativity can go a long way in finding a spot that's just right for your plant.

Also, keep in mind the plant's vining nature. Whether you plan to let it trail along the ground, climb a trellis, or spill over the sides of a container, make sure there's enough room for it to spread out and show off those unique leaves.

Preparing the Soil

Soil is a crucial element in the success of growing any plant, and Shangri La Pothos is no exception. While these plants aren't too picky, they do have preferences when it comes to soil conditions.

The ideal soil for a Shangri La Pothos is well-draining and slightly acidic. If your garden soil is heavy and clay-like, you might want to amend it with some organic matter or sand to improve drainage. Think of it as giving your plant a cushy bed to stretch out in.

You can also consider using potting soil mixed with perlite or orchid bark to ensure good aeration. These additions help prevent water from sitting around the roots, which can lead to rot. If you're planting in a container, make sure it has drainage holes to let excess water escape.

As with any plant, a little compost can go a long way in providing nutrients. Mixing in some compost or a balanced slow-release fertilizer can help keep your Shangri La Pothos looking its best. Just remember, moderation is key—you don't want to overdo it and end up with nutrient burn.

Transitioning from Indoors to Outdoors

Moving a plant from the cozy indoors to the unpredictable outdoors can be a bit of a shock. To make this process smoother for your Shangri La Pothos, it's a good idea to transition gradually.

Start by placing your plant outside for a few hours a day in a shaded spot. Over the course of a week or two, gradually increase the amount of time it spends outside. This gives the plant time to acclimate to the new environment without being overwhelmed.

Keep an eye on the weather during this period. If there's a sudden drop in temperature or a forecast for heavy rain, it might be best to bring the plant back inside temporarily. Remember, your plant is getting used to its new digs, so a little extra care can make the transition easier.

Once your plant is spending full days outside and seems to be adjusting well, you can find a more permanent spot for it. Just like moving to a new house, it's all about finding that perfect place where it can settle in and thrive.

Watering and Feeding

Watering is another crucial aspect of caring for your outdoor Shangri La Pothos. While they enjoy a good drink, they don't like to sit in soggy soil. It's all about finding that Goldilocks zone—not too dry, not too wet, but just right.

A good rule of thumb is to water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. This might mean watering more frequently during hot, dry spells, and less during cooler, damp weather. If you're using a container, be sure it has drainage holes to prevent water from accumulating at the bottom.

When it comes to feeding, a balanced liquid fertilizer every month or so during the growing season can help keep your plant healthy. You might find that your outdoor plant grows faster than its indoor counterparts, thanks to the natural light and fresh air, so a little extra nutrition can be beneficial.

Just remember, more isn't always better. Over-fertilizing can cause more harm than good, leading to leaf burn or salt buildup in the soil. It's all about balance, just like finding the right amount of sugar in your coffee.

Pest Management

Ah, pests—the uninvited guests at any plant party. While Shangri La Pothos are generally resilient, moving them outdoors can expose them to a new range of potential nuisances.

Common pests for outdoor pothos plants include aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. Regularly checking your plant for signs of these critters is a good habit to get into. Look for sticky residue, webbing, or small insects on the leaves and stems.

If you do spot any pests, there are a few ways to tackle them. A gentle spray of water can help dislodge aphids and spider mites. For more stubborn infestations, consider using insecticidal soap or neem oil. These are safe, natural options that can help keep your plant pest-free.

Also, encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs, which prey on many common pests. Consider it nature's way of keeping things in check, like inviting a helpful neighbor over to deal with an unexpected problem.

Dealing with Climate Challenges

Even if you live in a suitable climate, Mother Nature can sometimes throw a curveball. Whether it's an unexpected cold snap or a dry spell, knowing how to respond can make a big difference for your Shangri La Pothos.

For sudden cold weather, consider using a frost cloth to cover your plant or simply bring it indoors until temperatures rise. Frost cloths are lightweight and can help trap heat, providing a temporary buffer against the cold.

If you're dealing with a dry spell, increase humidity by misting the plant or placing a shallow tray of water nearby. Humidity trays can be a simple yet effective way to create a more humid microenvironment for your plant.

It's also worth considering a movable plant stand or container. This allows you to easily relocate the plant to a more sheltered spot if needed, like moving to a quieter corner during a noisy party.

Enjoying the Outdoor Beauty

Once your Shangri La Pothos is settled outdoors, take a moment to step back and admire your handiwork. There's something special about seeing a plant thrive in a natural setting, adding a touch of whimsy to your garden or patio.

Consider pairing your Shangri La Pothos with other tropical plants to create a lush, vibrant corner. The unique leaf shape can provide a lovely contrast to more traditional foliage, creating a dynamic visual display.

Whether it's climbing a trellis or trailing from a hanging basket, your Shangri La Pothos can become a striking feature in your outdoor space. Just like finding the perfect place for a treasured piece of art, it's all about showcasing its natural beauty.

And remember, gardening is a journey. There might be bumps along the way, but with a little patience and care, your outdoor Shangri La Pothos can become a thriving, charming addition to your garden.

Final Thoughts

So, can you grow a Shangri La Pothos outdoors? With the right conditions and a bit of tender loving care, it's definitely possible. From selecting the perfect spot to managing pests, each step plays a role in helping your plant thrive outside.

At Cafe Planta, we're passionate about helping you care for your plants. Whether you're looking for advice or a new addition to your collection, we're here for you. Feel free to email us or drop us a message on Instagram. We believe in the joy that plants bring, and we're excited to share that with you!