If there is anything that can be particularly challenging for houseplants then it is winter. And when it comes to the imagery related to the winter, even the most gothic indoor plants may have problems. Although, you may believe that your fragile houseplants are doomed to die during winter, but with a few helpful tricks you will be able to make your plants not only survive but to actually thrive during a first plant in your home, in this article, you will find all the necessary information to care about the plants in winter.
1.Understand Your Plants’ Needs
Many of the plants also come from the tropical or subtropical areas, which suggests that they prefer a warm climate and bright light. As for winter, the idea is to recreate these conditions as accurately as possible after all the weather is significantly different.
Temperature
It is crucial that most houseplants are given a range of temperatures of between 65- and 75-degree Fahrenheit during the day with temperatures dropping to 15 degrees Fahrenheit at night. One key aspect that has to be taken seriously is the fact that plants should not be exposed to drafts from windows, doors or heaters as this will stress the plants up due to fluctuations in the surrounding temperature.
Light
One of the issues encountered most is the probable shortness of daylight in winter. Most of the indoor plants need a bright but indirect light while the intensity of the sun is considerably less in winter, and there are fewer hours of daylight. If possible, trans-locate your plants nearer to the windows that have the most exposure to light, particularly the southern ones. For plants that require more light consider using artificial light commonly referred to as the grow light.
2.Water Wisely
One great mistake that plant owners often make during the winter is overwatering. Due to the fact that most of the indoor plants have become dormant in this season, they require relatively little water than during the other seasons.
Check the Soil
Always ensure the soil before you water it. If the upper layer of one inch of soil is dry then it is high time for watering. In the cases when it is still moist, one should wait a couple of days and try it once more. During the winter season, it is safer to under-water the plant rather than over-water since moisture in the soil may give a way to root rot.
Adjust Humidity Levels
Indoor air is much drier in winter than in the other seasons because of various heating systems that are used. Some of them include: The air humidity Some plants like succulents can grow well in dry air while the others like ferns or tropic plants require high humidity.
To boost humidity:
- Group plants together
- Use a humidity tray
3.Adjust Your Fertilizer Routine
It is important to know that most of the indoor plants don’t require so much of the fertilizer during the winter as they do in spring and summer when the plant is actually growing. This can be disastrous to your plants as it leads to accumulation of salts in the soil, thus affecting the roots.
Slow Down on Feeding
In winter condition, for example, it is advisable to prune on the feed portion for your plants. However, if your plant seems to have grown slower towards the fulsome part of the year, then it is prudent to feed it once every six to eight weeks. If the plant is dormant, you should stop fertilizing it until the coming of spring, although it is rare to completely halt the feeding of the plant.
4.Prune and Clean Your Plants
During winter you come across free time that you can use to prune and clean your plants. This is helpful in order to take out the old or the yellowing leaves, which can be inviting to pests and diseases.
Pruning
To minimize the spread of disease prune it with clean sharp scissors or pruning shears to take out any withered or rotting leaves. Not only does this enhance the aesthetic of the plant but causes a shift of focus towards the plant and its growth.
Cleaning
Though it may not be realized it can form a layer on the leaves that robs the plant of its sunlight and this will hinder photosynthesis. Let the leaves dry and dust-free use a damp cloth and clean it gently. For plants with small, thin or hairy leaves, then apply a small brush to wipe the plant.
5.Monitor for Pests
Diseases such as spider mites, aphids and mealy bugs tend to be more devastating during winter since the plant vigour is low due to less light and low humidity. Daily check your plants for pest invasions and treat the instant you notice them.
Spider Mites: They are small insects that when bite can make the leaves appear dotted or cased in webbing. The removal of the leaves should be done by washing them with a solution that comprises water and mild soap.
Aphids: They are small sized insects and they are soft bodied, with green, black or brown colouration. Give them a shower of water or use insecticidal soap to control them.
Mealybugs: These pests are manifested as small grains, very much resembling cotton wool. Rubbing them off can be done with a cotton soaked in rubbing alcohol for those who desire to get them removed.
6. Repotting and Transplanting: Wait Until Spring
Transplanting your plants therefore is usually best done at the onset of spring. Repotting is a very stressing factor to plants and they require time to recuperate, this could take some time in the poor light conditions of winter. Only repot it if it looks root-bound or if the roots are sprouting out of the drainage hole of the pot; other than that, wait until spring.
Conclusion
Caring for houseplants during winter does not have to be a problem even for novice residents. Giving them their necessary needs, changing your care process, and closely monitoring their changes will let your plants be your green buddies for the year round. As I have mentioned earlier, the most important thing here is to recognize and identify when your plants need your attention and care. By taking on board these helpful tips you have it made that your houseplants will not only endure but blossom throughout the winter season.
