How Long Do Artificial Plants Last Outside?
There’s something really lovely about stepping outside and being greeted by a bit of greenery — whether it’s a charming potted plant on the porch or a full garden wall draped in lush leaves. But let’s be honest, not all of us have the time (or the knack) for keeping live plants thriving in outdoor settings. That’s where an artificial plant can feel like a little miracle. No watering, no pruning — just steady, reliable beauty.
But if you’re thinking about adding a fake plant to your patio or balcony, you might be wondering: How long do these things actually last outside? Can you really put fake plants outside and expect them to hold up through sun, wind, and rain? And what about fading — do these outdoor artificial plants fade in the sun over time?
These are great questions, especially if you're trying to create an outdoor space that stays vibrant with minimal fuss. In this guide, we’ll walk through how long artificial plants outside typically last, what causes them to fade, and how UV protection can make all the difference in keeping your fake plants outside looking their best. Because yes — with the right care and a few smart choices, your outdoor artificial plant can last for years.
Let’s dive into how to keep your plants outside fresh, fabulous, and fading a whole lot slower.
How Long Do Artificial Plants Last Outside?
When it comes to placing plants outside, we often think of seasonal blooms or hardy succulents. But more and more, folks are turning to the artificial plant — and for good reason. A good outdoor artificial plant can handle a lot more than you might expect. Still, just like anything left in the elements, how long these fake plants last outside really depends on a few key things.
Generally speaking, outdoor artificial plants last anywhere from two to five years, especially if they’re UV resistant and designed for outdoor use. But without proper care or protection, some may fade outside much faster — especially under direct sunlight. Those strong UV rays from the sun can break down the materials over time, causing your once vibrant greenery to fade in the sun or become brittle.
It also matters where you put fake plants outside. A covered porch or shaded patio can help keep artificial plants looking fresh much longer compared to placing them in fully exposed outdoor settings. High-quality artificial plants made with UV protection or built-in UV treatment will outlast cheaper versions that weren’t meant to weather the storm (literally).
So yes — your fake plant can absolutely thrive outdoors. But like any piece of outdoor décor, how long your artificial plants outside stay vibrant depends on what they’re made of, how they’re treated, and where they’re placed.
What Affects How Long Fake Plants Last Outside?
Not all fake plants outside are created equal, and if you've ever watched your beautiful greenery start to fade just a few months after setting it out, you're not alone. The truth is, several factors come into play when it comes to how long an artificial plant holds up in outdoor settings.
1. UV Exposure
The number one culprit behind why artificial plants fade is UV light from the sun. Over time, UV rays can break down materials, causing them to crack, become brittle, or lose color. Plants that fade in the sun often lack proper UV resistance, which is why it’s essential to choose artificial plants labeled UV resistant or designed specifically as outdoor artificial plants.
2. Material Quality
What the plants are made from matters. High-quality outdoor artificial plants often feature built-in UV protection or are treated with a UV spray to help them withstand outdoor elements like wind, rain, and heat. Cheaper options, like silk plants or plastic plants not meant for outdoor use, may only last a season or two before they begin to fade outside.
3. Weather Conditions
Extreme weather — think heavy rain, snow, or scorching heat — can wear down even the best artificial outdoor plants. That’s why it helps to place your faux plant in a semi-protected spot, like under a patio or awning. You can still put fake plants outside, just be mindful of where and how they're displayed.
4. Indoor vs. Outdoor Use
Some artificial plants are made strictly for indoor use, even though they look a lot like those made for plants outside. Always check the label. If a fake plant doesn’t have UV treatment, it’s better off inside where UV rays from the sun can’t reach it.
So, if you want your plant to last and stay vibrant, go for artificial plants made for the outdoors, with UV protection, and give them a bit of shelter when you can. That’s how you’ll keep artificial plants looking beautiful, season after season.
How to Keep Artificial Plants from Fading Outside
Even the most durable artificial plant isn’t totally invincible when faced with the outdoors. Between the strong UV rays, shifting weather, and everyday dust, your beautiful greenery can start to fade if you’re not careful. But don’t worry — there are a few simple ways to keep artificial plants looking fresh and vibrant, no matter where you place them.
1. Choose UV-Treated Artificial Plants
The easiest way to get ahead of fading is to start with UV-treated artificial plants. These are specially designed to handle plants outside, with built-in UV resistance that protects them from the sun. Whether it’s a fake plant in a garden bed or a lush artificial green wall on your balcony, investing in UV resistant materials makes all the difference.
2. Apply a UV Protection Spray
If your outdoor artificial plant wasn’t made with UV treatment, don’t worry — you can still add a layer of protection yourself. Just grab a UV spray designed for outdoor fake plants and give them a good coating every few months. It’s a quick fix that helps keep artificial plants from fading, especially in areas with lots of sunlight.
3. Give Them Some Shelter
It helps to place your artificial greenery where it’s not constantly exposed to the harshest elements. Covered patios, balconies, or shaded corners offer a little relief from UV rays and help your fake plants outside last longer. A little shade can go a long way when it comes to preventing plants fade in the sun.
4. Clean Gently, But Regularly
Dirt and debris can dull the look of your artificial greenery, making them appear more worn than they really are. Gently wipe them down with a soft cloth or hose them off (if safe for the materials). Just like real plants, they’ll thank you for the care.
5. Rotate and Refresh as Needed
Some artificial plants may start to fade outside no matter what. If you notice certain pieces looking more tired than others, try rotating them or mixing in new elements to keep your outdoor decorating fresh. Swapping out just a few faux trees and green walls can make your whole space feel revived.
With just a bit of effort and the right tools, your artificial plants outdoors can truly last a long time outside — often for several years. And best of all, they’ll continue to bring that lush, like real plants feeling without all the upkeep.
When to Refresh or Replace Your Outdoor Artificial Plants
Even the best artificial plant won’t last forever, especially when it’s braving the elements every day. While outdoor artificial plants last for several years with the right care, there comes a time when even the sturdiest fake plant starts to look a little too weathered. And that’s totally okay.
So how do you know when it’s time to switch things up?
1. Fading and Discoloration
If your plants outside have noticeably faded or lost their rich color — especially if they fade in the sun or have uneven spots from UV exposure — that’s a clear sign they need some love. Artificial plants fade slowly, but once the color starts to dull, it’s hard to bring it back.
2. Brittle or Damaged Material
Over time, UV rays, rain, and wind can make the materials dry out or crack. If your artificial plants made from plastic or fabric feel brittle to the touch or begin to fall apart, it's probably time to replace them. Many artificial plants require very little care, but once they break down, they can’t be repaired easily.
3. Outdated Style or Layout
Sometimes, it’s not about damage — you just want a fresh look. Maybe your outdoor settings need a seasonal refresh or you’ve found new plants and flowers you love more. Swapping out a few artificial trees and plants or rearranging your fake plants outside can breathe new life into your space.
4. You Skipped UV Protection
If your outdoor artificial plant didn’t have UV treatment, or you forgot to use a UV spray, it might be showing more wear than expected. Plants without built-in UV protection may fade outside within a single season. In these cases, replacing them with UV resistant options can help them stay outside and look better longer next time.
Whether you're updating your patio with fake plants for outside or building an artificial green wall, a little refresh now and then is part of keeping your space feeling inviting. Thankfully, many artificial plants are affordable and easy to replace — and the advantages of outdoor artificial plants are still totally worth it.
They may not grow like real plants, but they still bring life and style to any outdoor faux setup. So if your old favorites are starting to look tired, don’t be afraid to mix things up. Sometimes, all it takes is one new artificial flower to make your whole plant outdoor space feel brand new again.
Let Your Outdoor Space Thrive with Worry-Free Greenery
Caring for plants outside doesn’t have to mean hours of watering, trimming, or fretting over sunlight. Whether you’re dressing up a balcony, a garden nook, or your front porch, artificial plants are an excellent way to bring beauty and ease to your outdoor settings.
Our outdoor artificial plants are crafted to handle the elements — made from durable materials with built-in UV resistance, they’re designed to keep artificial plants from fading and looking their best. So even when the sun is strong or the weather gets unpredictable, your fake plants outside stay vibrant. No cracks, no fading, no fuss.
Unlike some artificial plants without built-in UV protection that fade in the sun and may only last a single season, our UV resistant options are made for the long haul. These artificial plants for outdoor use can last for several years, giving you a timeless look that feels as good as it looks — season after season.
So whether you're ready to put fake plants outside for the first time or simply refreshing your setup, you can feel confident choosing greenery that truly lasts. Because a little extra love (and UV protection!) goes a long way — and your outdoor artificial plant will thank you for it by staying beautiful every day.