All Topics 09.01.24
Winter Care Tips for Houseplants
As the days shorten and temperatures drop, many of us retreat into the warmth of our homes, bundling up against the chill of winter. But what about our leafy companions? Just like us, houseplants feel the impact of the colder months. In this blog post, we'll explore essential tips to ensure your indoor plants not only survive but thrive during the winter season.
Keeping Your Houseplants Happy in Winter
Firstly, it's important to understand how winter affects your indoor plants. Lower light levels, shorter days, and indoor heating can all impact a plant's health. Here's how to address these challenges:
Caring for houseplants in winter can be a rewarding experience. It not only helps keep your plants healthy but also brings a bit of nature's calm and beauty into your home during the bleak winter months. Remember, each plant has its unique needs, so always consider the specific requirements of your plants. With these tips, your houseplants can not only survive but flourish, ready to burst into full growth with the arrival of spring.
Winter mantra: Less water, more light!
1
Maximising Light Exposure
During winter, light is a precious commodity. Most houseplants originate from tropical environments, where they are accustomed to more daylight. To compensate for the decrease in natural sunlight:
• Place plants near windows where they can receive ample light, but be wary of cold drafts.
• Clean windows to allow maximum light penetration.
• Consider using grow lights for plants that require more light.
2
Regulating Temperature and Humidity
Indoor heating can create a dry environment, which is less than ideal for many houseplants. Here’s how to keep the air around your plants more humid:
• Group plants together to create a micro-environment with higher humidity.
• Use a humidifier, or place water trays near your heating system.
• Be vigilant about keeping plants away from cold drafts and heat sources like radiators.
3
Adjusting Your Watering Routine
Over-watering is a common mistake in plant care, especially during winter. Plants generally require less water in the colder months. Here’s what you can do:
• Check the soil moisture before watering. Only water when the top inch of soil is dry.
• Reduce the frequency of watering, but don’t let the soil become completely dry.
4
Fertilisation & Growth
Winter is typically a dormant period for plants, meaning they grow less and require fewer nutrients. Therefore:
• Hold off on fertilising until the spring when the growing season resumes.
• This is also not the ideal time for repotting or pruning, unless necessary for the health of the plant.
5
Choosing the Right Plants
If you're looking to add more greenery to your home during winter, consider choosing plants that are more tolerant of lower light and drier conditions, such as:
6
Regular Checks for Pests and Diseases
Indoor plants can be susceptible to pests and diseases, especially when they are stressed by less-than-ideal conditions. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of trouble and treat promptly.
Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to pests in your garden; by using our Bug Control Spray, you can protect your plants pro-actively, ensuring they stay healthy and pest-free, rather than dealing with the often challenging and time-consuming task of eliminating an infestation after it occurs.
