As another growing season comes to a close, here are a few tips to get your houseplants ready for winter.
Stop Feeding: As the days become shorter and shorter, growth will begin to slow. Some houseplants will go completely dormant. This is the time to start easing back on the fertilizer. Since their rapid growth period is over, they don’t need it.
Cut Back: This is also the time to cut plants back. This will encourage compact and bushy growth in the spring. The cuttings can be rooted in water or soil to make new plants.
Water Less: Houseplants need less water in the winter months. Let the soil dry out a few inches before watering. With cacti or succulents, watering can be stopped almost completely.
Adjust Lighting: Sunlight in the winter is much weaker than it is in the summer, so it’s a good idea to move houseplants closer to windows or use grow lights to insure they get enough light.
Health Check: If houseplants are being brought back in after a summer outdoors, it’s important to inspect them thoroughly for signs of insects and disease. Check under leaves and where the leaves meet the stem, as well as the base of the plant. Finally, take it out of its pot and inspect the soil and roots. Many pests find their way into plants through the drainage holes. If an infestation is found, isolate the plant and treat with an insecticidal soap. Plants that show signs of disease are best discarded.
Clean Up:The lower and weaker light of winter means plants need to work extra hard at making food. Dirty leaves make this difficult, so give them a shower under the tap or in the tub. Plants with large leaves can be cleaned with a soft, damp cloth. Fuzzy leaved plants like African Violets are easily cleaned using a soft painters or cosmetic brush.
Keep an Eye on Temps:Most houseplants appreciate a sunny windowsill, but come night time that same windowsill could be deadly. Never place houseplants between a window and a curtain. Cold air will be trapped in between, and that can severely damage plants. It’s also important to make sure the leaves don’t touch the glass, which can get very very cold at night. Make sure plants aren’t left in an unheated room either.
Temps that are too warm can be just as damaging. Keep plants away from heaters and radiators, and since heated air tends to be very dry, keep plants on a humidity tray, mist often, or use a humidifier.
Follow these simple tips and houseplants will have a happy winter’s rest!
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