The risks of a rainy day spa for your houseplants

Houseplants may look like they're thriving indoors, but a closer inspection often reveals a buildup of dust on their leaves and mineral deposits in their soil. This staleness can come from months of living in poorly ventilated air.

Summer showers bring more than just relief

Some enthusiasts advocate giving plants a spa day by moving them outside during a warm summer rain shower. The soft water rinses leaves clean, and plants get a rare taste of outdoor conditions.

But beware, as I found out when I put some tropical plants out during a seemingly light summer rain. The temperature was colder than expected, and the downpour was intense enough to cause chill damage and waterlogged soil. One Calathea came back with darkened patches on its leaves, and a Monstera fared worse, battered by the rain.

There's also the danger of vine weevils, slugs, and other outdoor pests hitching a ride back inside on your pots. So while the idea of a plant spa day sounds appealing, it's best to stick to a lukewarm shower indoors, which provides the rinse without the risks.