🌿 Can you put artificial plants outside? What you need to know
They don't wilt, don't require watering, and are always impeccable... Artificial plants have everything going for them indoors. But what about outdoors? Balcony, terrace, garden, entrance: can they really be exposed to the elements?
The answer is yes... but not just any old way. 🌦️ Not all models are designed to withstand sun, rain, or frost. Here's everything you need to know to avoid unpleasant surprises and enjoy 100% maintenance-free green decor, even outdoors.

🚫 1. Not all artificial plants go outdoors
This is the most common mistake: thinking that all artificial plants can be used outdoors. In reality, only some are designed to withstand weather conditions .
🌞 Beware of UV rays
The sun is the worst enemy of classic artificial plants: in a few weeks, it can turn the leaves from green to a dull yellow... or even cause the plastic to crack.
Solution: Choose “UV-treated” or “outdoor-friendly” models. They are designed to withstand prolonged exposure without fading.
🌧️ Moisture resistance
Rain, dew or even automatic watering can damage unsuitable plants: moss peels off, metal rusts, glue melts, etc.
Outdoor models are made with water-resistant materials (treated polyester, molded plastic, rot-proof foam, etc.)
💡 Tip before buying:
Check the product description to make sure the plant is designed for outdoor use. Look for the words "UV resistant," "special outdoor," or "weatherproof." If it's not specified, it's best not to take the risk.
✅ 2. How to install them properly so that they last over time
Choosing an artificial outdoor plant is a good thing... But to ensure it stays beautiful over time, you also need to know where and how to install it . A few simple precautions can help avoid premature wear and tear or unpleasant surprises.
🪴 Choose a strategic location
- – Protected from strong winds : to prevent it from falling or being damaged
- – In partial shade if possible : even with anti-UV treatment, limiting direct exposure prolongs lifespan
- – Avoid flood-prone areas or trays without drainage holes, which retain rainwater
🧱 Stabilize your plant correctly
Unlike live plants, artificial versions are sometimes lighter. As a result? They can tip over or move in the wind. To avoid this:
- – Add weight to the pot : sand, pebbles, gravel or decorative pebbles
- – Secure the plant with dense floral foam or concrete if it is in a fixed planter
- – Use strong double-sided tape or cable ties if you hang them vertically (green wall, balcony)
🎨 Refine the rendering for a more natural look
To make the artificial plant blend into the outdoor decor, consider “cheating” a little to make it even more realistic:
- – Mix with natural plants (succulents, aromatics, cacti, etc.) in the same container
- – Add some soil or decorative shavings to the base to hide the plastic
- – Integrate it into a floral arrangement or an already planted flowerbed
🌼 Bonus tip:
If you're installing an artificial hedge or green wall outdoors, consider securing it with corrosion-resistant fasteners (plastic or stainless steel). Avoid areas that are too exposed to the mistral or seaside winds.
💧 3. How to care for your artificial plants outdoors?
Even though they don't require watering, artificial plants placed outdoors require a little maintenance to remain beautiful and lifelike. Wind, dust, pollen, rain, and more can dull their appearance over time. Here's how to easily restore their shine.
🧽 Regular dusting
- – Use a dry microfiber cloth to gently remove dust
- – For fine foliage, a soft brush or a wide paintbrush can work wonders
- – You can also blow off the dust with a hair dryer on cold setting
🚿 Cleaning with water (with caution)
Once a month, if necessary, you can clean your plants with a little warm water:
- – Rinse gently under a shower or with a spray bottle
- – Let them air dry in the shade
- – Avoid high-pressure jets or abrasive sponges
⚠️ Avoid wetting parts with glue, foam or untreated metal.
🛡️ Extend their lifespan with a UV protective spray
There are UV-protective sprays specifically designed for outdoor artificial plants. They create a protective barrier against the sun's rays and slow down fading:
- – Apply every 3 to 6 months
- – Ideal for south-facing balconies or gardens in full sun
- – Available in garden stores or online
💡 Quick maintenance tip:
Mix warm water and a little mild dish soap in a spray bottle. Spray lightly and wipe with a soft cloth for clean, shiny, streak-free foliage.
🌵 Artificial agave: the graphic and resistant touch for your exteriors
Elegant, structured, 100% maintenance-free... This artificial agave plant, designed for outdoor use, is resistant to sun and rain. Perfect for a terrace, balcony, or modern entryway.

🌿 Discover the Outdoor Artificial Agave
🔍 4. Which artificial plants should you choose for outdoors?
Not all artificial plants are created equal. For outdoor use, it's essential to choose suitable, durable, and realistic varieties. Here are the best options to choose from for creating a natural look... without the hassle.
🌿 The must-have “outdoor special” items
- ✅ Artificial boxwood : ideal for structuring an entrance, edging a path, or decorating a terrace. Available in balls, hedges, or pots.
- ✅ Grasses & tall herbs : perfect for a bohemian or wild effect, they add movement and lightness.
- ✅ Ferns & hanging plants : ideal for hanging planters, green walls or balconies to decorate.
- ✅ Artificial bamboo : widely used to create privacy or a “zen” effect on a balcony or by the pool.
- ✅ Artificial palm & banana tree : immediate tropical ambiance, for patios or outdoor relaxation areas.
- ✅ Artificial plant hedges : perfect for screening an overlook or covering a wire fence.
🧪 Be careful with materials
For a lasting result, choose plants designed with:
- – High density injected plastic : for foliage
- – Stainless steel wire or strong rod for the structure
- – Rot-proof foam for bases, if present
- – Certified anti-UV treatment (mentioned on the product sheet)
🎯 For an ultra-natural look
The ideal is to mix several types of plants (tall + hanging + compact) and to play with the levels and containers : decorative tubs, textured pots, rattan baskets, hanging planters, etc. This creates volume and reinforces the “living” effect.
💡 Good to know:
The more outdoor-friendly the artificial plant, the denser, more flexible, more durable, and more stable it will be. The price may be slightly higher than an indoor model, but the durability is unparalleled.
🛠️ 5. Concrete decorative ideas with artificial outdoor plants
Artificial outdoor plants offer total freedom to create stylish, natural, and 100% maintenance-free decor. Whether you have a small balcony or a large garden, here are some practical, easy-to-create ideas for creating a stunning green space.
🌿 1. An urban jungle balcony
- – Cover the railings with an artificial plant hedge
- – Add hanging plants or plants placed in planters
- – Include a potted palm or banana tree in a corner
- – Play with heights: pots on stools, hanging lamps, decorative ladders
🪴 2. A stylish lounge terrace
For a cozy and elegant atmosphere, opt for:
- – Artificial boxwood or olive trees in oversized pots
- – A touch of soft grasses in natural fiber baskets
- – XXL foliage in the corners to structure the space
- – Complete with LED garlands and cushions for ambiance
🏡 3. A welcoming entrance
- – Two symmetrical boxwood or palm trees on each side of the door
- – A small dividing hedge to delimit the space
- – An outdoor rug + solar lanterns to complete the setting
📸 4. A green wall or a transformed fence
Ideal for hiding a view, dressing a wall or creating an elegant separation:
- – Attach a modular artificial hedge or ivy panel
- – Add exotic plant stems for a jungle effect
- – Integrate decorative elements: plant frames, lights, outdoor mirrors
🌼 5. A relaxation area in the garden
Even if your green space is already in bloom, artificial plants can complement your layout without maintenance:
- – Create a mixed bed with natural + artificial plants
- – Add decorative pots filled with stable foliage
- – Play with textures: rattan, pebbles, driftwood, for a natural effect
💡 Style advice:
Mix green plants, flowers, and foliage to avoid a "too uniform" effect. Alternate heights, textures, and container types for a natural and vibrant look.
🌞 Conclusion: yes to artificial plants outdoors... provided you choose them carefully!
Installing artificial plants outdoors saves time, provides peace of mind, and creates beauty ... all year round. No need to water, prune, or monitor their condition daily. But for truly lasting and aesthetic results, you must:
- ✅ Choose special outdoor models (UV treated, water resistant)
- ✅ Install them intelligently (stabilization, location, camouflage)
- ✅ Maintain them lightly to keep their shine
- ✅ Mix textures and heights for a realistic and stylish rendering
Want to get started? Discover our selection of artificial plants designed for outdoor use : durable foliage, ready-to-install hedges, XXL bamboo or exotic palm trees... Everything is ready to beautify your balconies, terraces and gardens effortlessly 🌱
🌿 The Ultimate Outdoor Collection for your outdoors
Resistant to sun, rain and wind, our artificial outdoor plants transform any space into a piece of paradise… without the maintenance.
🌱 Discover the Outdoor collection
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