Learn how to care for houseplants in cold weather. Tips for keeping your plants healthy during the winter months.
Taking care of houseplants in cold weather can be challenging, but with the correct information and maintenance, you can keep your plants healthy and thriving. While these are general tips for most houseplants, you should do your research for specific houseplants and their requirements.
Here are some tips to help you care for your houseplants during the colder months.
Reduce Watering
The shorter days and reduced sun in winter months mean that most plants go into dormancy. Since plants only take in water based on how much sunlight they receive, you’ll find you have to water them less often. While you may be inclined to follow a schedule, all you need to do is check the soil regularly and only water when the soil is dry.
When you water your plants, make sure that you pour water evenly around the plant, saturating the soil but not creating mud. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems, so it’s better to err on the side of caution.
Use a Humidifier
Plants need humidity levels to stay between 70%-80% to stay healthy. Dry air can damage houseplants through water loss, especially those native to tropical regions. To combat this, consider using a humidifier near your plants. This will add moisture to the air and help keep their leaves hydrated.
You can also maintain humidity levels by clustering all of your houseplants together or placing plants on trays with pebbles and water. When the water evaporates from the trays, it creates a humid environment suitable for plants.
Protect Your Plants From Extreme Temperatures
Cold air can harm houseplants, so keeping them away from drafts and windowsills is essential. While some plants are less sensitive to cold temperatures, if you feel you need more warmth, they probably do too.
Additionally, keep plants away from radiators and heating units because these can dry plants out quickly. Move your plants to a well-insulated room with a consistent temperature.
Maintain Optimal Light Conditions
While most plants can adjust to seasonal changes, if plants need direct sunlight like cacti or birds of paradise, it may help to get supplemental lighting, such as grow lights or lamps, to ensure they get enough light to photosynthesize.
In winter, move your plants closer to the window so they can get as much light as possible. If your plants look like they are leaning towards the window, it helps to rotate them so every side gets equal sunlight.
Prune and Keep Foliage Clean
Winter weather can cause some plants to drop their leaves or develop brown tips. Remove any dead or dying foliage to promote healthy growth and prevent pests.
In addition, closed windows increase dust and particles in your home during winter months. Cleaning dust from foliage and leaves helps your plans to experience the full benefits of limited sunlight in the winter. Use damp microfiber cloths to wipe down each leaf. Alternatively, place the plant under a lukewarm shower for a few minutes.
Leave the Repotting to Warmer Months
Plants respond well to repotting when they are actively growing. Your plants will enter ‘rest’ mode in winter, so you must keep them in the same pots. This will keep them healthy and prevent transplant shock, which can result in wilting or yellowing leaves. The best season to repot is spring, so active roots will have enough time to grow into the new potting mix.
Fertilize Sparingly
Since houseplants are dormant in colder months, reducing how much fertilizer you put in the soil is best. While fertilizer provides added nutrients, the plants won’t benefit at this time. Wait until spring to fertilize your plants again. If you are actively growing a plant with ample light, fertilize at half-strength.
Monitor Your Plants for Pests
Cold weather can bring unwanted visitors like spider mites, mealybugs and scale. Keep an eye out for these pests. When you water your plants, check the stems and leaves for insects. You can remove them with your fingers or use a cotton ball soaked with alcohol. You can also fortify the soil by making banana water using peels soaked for 24 hours or spraying neem oil on the whole plant.
Keep Your Plants Healthy in the Winter
You can help your houseplants survive and even thrive during the cold winter months with adequate sunlight, minimal watering, correct humidity conditions and regular cleaning. Remember always to research the specific needs of your plants and adjust your care routine accordingly.
Cora’s passion is to inspire others to live a happy, healthful, and mindful life through her words on Revivalist – wholeheartedly convincing them that everyday moments are worth celebrating. Cora has spent 5+ years writing for numerous lifestyle sites – hence her sincere love for both life and the beauty of style in all things. Keep up with Cora on Twitter, Pinterest and Facebook.
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