Here’s some top tips on caring for your plants through the winter months.
Most common houseplants are tropical in origin and growth rates start to decline when temperatures fall below 10°C.
Firstly, it is not a good time to repot your plants. They have grown vigorously while outside in the warm temperatures of summer. The available light will be reduced in intensity as well as the hours of daylight through autumn and winter. Few houseplants go dormant (such as Caladiums and other bulb based plants) but their growth rate does slow down in response to the reduced light. That means their roots will also stop growing. Repotting now runs the dangerous risk of then overwatering.
Although winter growth and water-use does slow down, that may be countered by the dry winter air that causes moisture to evaporate from the plant leaves and soil more than normal. Indoor plants often use more water in the dry indoor air of winter. Always water your plants, as needed, not by the calendar.
Likewise, as the growth rate slows, the need for nutrients also decreases so you can stop feeding your plants with organic plant feeds altogether for the next six months or at least reduce the nutrients you provide for them by at least half.
Low humidity in our heated winter homes is a common concern, but an unnecessary one. Plants get the water they need through their roots as well as through their leaves. In dry air, you may need to water a bit more often and considering ways to increase humidity is not just good for your plants, it is also for for you and your skin, your pets, and your furniture so a humidifier might be a wise investment. Another option is to group plants together so they support each other. They will be fine to control their own atmosphere- fascinating!
Your plants through the winter months will struggle most with the further reduced light found indoors. Do your best to provide as much light as possible for your plants. I always move mine nearer our east and west facing windows. And consider Investing in a grow light if possible. We have started stocking the genius mini halo lights that are a talking piece alongside being practical. Another good tip is to clean their leaves so they receive enough light to photosynthesise properly. I recommend Plantsmith leaf shine spray and cotton cleaning gloves.
