Sunlight can be brutal, and your outdoor decor knows it.
If you’ve ever placed artificial plants outside only to watch them fade, crack, or fall apart within months, we understand the pain - it’s one we’ve dealt with, too.
The sad truth is, not all artificial plants are made for the outdoors.
In fact, there’s only one type of fauxliege that’s meant to thrive outside - UV-resistant artificial plants, a smarter, longer-lasting solution designed to handle the elements.
But are UV-protected fake plants actually worth it? And how long do they last outdoors?
Let’s unpack what makes outdoor fake plants different, and whether they’re the right choice for your space.
Keep reading.
What Are UV-Resistant Artificial Plants?
UV-resistant artificial plants are fake plants designed to endure direct sun exposure without fading, cracking, or deteriorating over time.
Standard plastic plants, when exposed to harsh sunlight, quickly lose their color and become brittle. Prolonged UV exposure breaks down plastic polymers and fades pigment, often within months, which is why low-cost options fail much faster.
On the other hand, UV-resistant artificial plants are manufactured with added protection against ultraviolet (UV) rays. As a result, UV-resistant fake plans are an ideal solution for long-term outdoor use.
Our UV-Tex technology
We don’t want our products to stand out just because they look realistic (although we’re proud of that, too). We want our products to stand out for their quality and durability, as well.
So, our team developed a proprietary UV-Tex technology: a cutting-edge two-step system that embeds UV protection into the plant material itself and finishes it with a specialized outer coating. By infusing UV inhibitors directly into the plant materials, our UV-protected products are sturdier than those relying on a regular UV spray.
What makes UV-Tex unique is its durability under some of the harshest conditions. This approach was born out of a need for our plants to withstand the UV levels of the sun that push many materials to their limits.
To make sure everything’s in order, each product undergoes extensive testing, including accelerated aging trials and real-world exposure in different climates.
Many of our clients currently use our UV-resistant artificial green walls in outdoor settings and have been for years. Thanks to them, we’ve got first-hand experience with how our products behave in different environments, and you’ve got the proof in many of our case studies:
Where Does UV Resistance Matter Most In Artificial Greenery?
UV resistance in artificial greenery matters most in outdoor areas with high sun exposure, where prolonged UV rays can cause fading, discoloration, and brittleness in regular, non-UV faux plants.
In other words, it really earns its keep in sunny, exposed spaces like:
Basically, anywhere with direct sunlight.
So, if your artificial plants are going in the sun, UV-protected artificial outdoor plants are a must.
Yet, if your space doesn’t need that level of durability, i.e., if you’re styling:
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A shaded patio
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Indoor nook
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A hallway with no windows
… then regular fake plants will likely hold up fine.
In the end, the key is matching the plant to its environment. If your plant is indoors in the shade, you’ve got a little more flexibility.
How Long Does UV-Resistant Fauxliege Last Compared to Non-UV?
Well-maintained outdoor UV-resistant artificial plants can last anywhere from 5-8+ years in full sun, especially when made with high-quality, durable materials. Some customers report their fake outdoor plants looking vibrant after a full decade in the sun.
But we don’t just talk the talk - we back it up with a warranty for many of our artificial hedge panels.
Thanks to a unique combination of embedded UV stabilizers and protective coatings, these faux plants retain their color and structure under intense conditions (like those in the South during summer).
Non-UV and cheap fake outdoor plants bought from sketchy manufacturers often start showing wear and tear within just a few months.
Soon enough, you’ll notice the green fading to a dull, washed-out tone, teetering toward blue. Depending on the level of sun damage, the fake leaves may also change their texture, and you’ll start seeing full sections peeling away.
When our founders were testing out artificial plant manufacturers before launching the business, they burned through tens of faux hedges on their sun-facing garden fence until they found the right blend of materials and protection, which we still use to this day.
So, if you want your greenery to last, especially in harsh outdoor conditions, UV-resistant faux plants are essential, not just a nice-to-have.
The Verdict
So, are UV-resistant artificial plants worth the cost?
If you’re decorating your outdoor space, yes, UV-resistant fake plants are absolutely worth it. While high-quality UV-protected artificial greenery might cost more upfront, it will last significantly longer outside. In the long run, it’ll save you money and reduce your need for frequent replacements.
But on the other hand, if you’re using artificial plants in indoor spaces or shaded areas with no direct sunlight, standard, non-UV faux plants may be enough. Of course, choosing UV resistance can still be beneficial because it offers peace of mind, but it’s not necessary.
The bottom line is:
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UV resistance is a non-negotiable for outdoor spaces exposed to the sun;
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UV resistance isn’t required for fauxliege indoors, but it may still offer benefits.
If you need advice or information about the type of artificial plant to buy for your space, get a free design consult from our expert team, or send us a DM with your question on social media - we’ll be glad to help.
FAQs
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Are artificial plants UV-resistant?
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Not all artificial plants are UV-resistant. Most standard fake plants are made for indoor use and quickly fade, crack, or become brittle when exposed to direct sunlight. However, there are UV-resistant artificial plants made to withstand outdoor conditions and treated with UV stabilizers that protect against sun damage. If you’re using a fake plant outdoors, you need to ensure it’s UV-resistant before buying it.
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How do you make fake plants UV-resistant?
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To make fake plants UV-resistant, manufacturers use a process that involves embedding UV stabilizers directly into the plant’s materials during production. If a fake plant isn’t UV-protected from production, you can use specialized UV sprays to add surface protection, albeit it won’t be as strong as the built-in protection.
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What is UV treatment for artificial plants?
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UV treatment is the process of protecting artificial plants from sun damage by applying UV-blocking technology. This can include sprays or coatings, or integrated UV stabilizers for a long-lasting solution. UV treatment helps outdoor artificial plants maintain their color and structural integrity over time, making them much more reliable for long-term use.