Re: Would a plant grow inside easier than it would outside?

Hi Matthew,

During that time of year, most plants will do better inside under controlled conditions.  Although 
plants native to a place like Michigan are well adapted to the large swings in temperature that are 
likely to occur in March/April, it’s still easier for them to grow under more consistent conditions 
that could be provided inside.  Of course this is assuming you provide them with good growing 
conditions indoors, including plenty of light.

Professional plant growers often start plants from seed indoors so that they can easily become 
well established under good conditions.  Once a plant is larger and has a well developed root 
system, it is better able to withstand changes in environmental conditions.

In theory, you could grow any plant for its whole life indoors under precisely controlled ideal 
conditions, and it would do better than it would outside, where the environment is not always 
ideal (drought, heat, sudden changes in temperature).  However, as a practical matter, it is easier 
to maintain long lived and larger plants outside in their native environment.  Plants grown in 
containers must be periodically repotted, and their roots are likely to outgrow whatever container 
they are in.  Furthermore, most, if not all, plants from a climate such as Michigan’s will require 
the changing of the seasons.  Without the winter/summer cycles, their natural cycles of growth 
and dormancy will be disrupted.  If grown in a warm environment year round, a temperate 
climate plant will eventually go dormant, but without a period of winter cold followed by the 
warmth of spring, may never come out of dormancy.  Of course, the seasons can be replicated 
indoors, but it takes planning and careful control.

Alex Brands