Stayin’ Alive (All Winter Long)
Photo by Lum3n
Introduction
As the vibrant days of summer give way to the cold embrace of winter, your houseplants might start to show signs of stress. With Thanksgiving approaching, you may notice that your once-thriving indoor plants are now exhibiting lifeless yellowing leaves and an overall untidy appearance. This annual struggle is common, but with the right care, you can help your houseplants regain vitality and keep them thriving throughout the winter. Here are five easy tips to ensure your indoor plants stay alive during the colder months.
5 Easy Tips to Keep Houseplants Alive in Winter
A Person Waters an Indoor Houseplant with a Small Watering Can
1. Cut Back on Watering and Fertilizing
During the winter, houseplants enter a period of dormancy, which means they require less water and no fertilizer. Overwatering is a common issue during this time and can lead to yellowing leaves and soil mold. To prevent this, reduce your watering frequency by half or only water when the soil feels dry to the touch. Ensure that your pots have proper drainage and that water doesn’t sit at the bottom, keeping the roots healthy and happy. Avoid fertilizing your plants during the winter, as they do not need extra nutrients while in dormancy.
2. Freshen Your Plants with a Gentle Shower
Dust accumulation on leaves can inhibit a plant’s ability to photosynthesize, which is especially detrimental during the low-light months of winter. To help your plants absorb as much light as possible, give them a gentle cleaning. You can do this by placing your plants in the bathtub and lightly showering them with lukewarm water. Use a paper towel or soft cloth to gently wipe down the leaves, removing any dust and ensuring the plants can breathe and photosynthesize effectively.
3. Protect Your Plants from Cold Drafts
Many houseplants, particularly tropical varieties, are sensitive to cold drafts. Exposure to chilly air can cause significant leaf drop, leaving your plants looking sparse and unhealthy. To protect them, make sure your windows and doors are properly sealed and insulated. If you cannot avoid drafts in certain areas of your home, move your plants away from windowsills, doorways, and other drafty spots to maintain their health.
4. Maximize Sunlight Exposure
Sunlight is crucial for your plants' survival during the winter months. If your home doesn’t receive enough natural light, consider supplementing with artificial lighting. Replace incandescent bulbs with full-spectrum lights, which mimic natural sunlight and help your plants thrive. For rooms with very limited light, investing in grow lights can provide the necessary light spectrum to keep your plants growing strong.
5. Hold Off on Repotting, But Pruning is Okay
Winter is not the ideal time to repot your plants, as root growth is slow and soil in larger pots can retain moisture for too long, leading to root rot. Save that new pot you’ve been eyeing for spring when your plants will be better equipped to handle the transition. However, don’t hesitate to prune back any yellow or brown leaves or trim leggy growth to improve the plant’s appearance. While you may not see much new growth until spring, pruning can help maintain a tidy and healthy look.
Expert Help for Winter Plant Care
Winter can be a challenging time for indoor gardeners, but with these tips, you can keep your houseplants looking their best all season long. If you have any additional questions about caring for your indoor or outdoor plants during the winter, don’t hesitate to contact Arborist Now. Our expert staff is available year-round with valuable advice and solutions to help your indoor garden thrive, ensuring your indoor oasis remains as beautiful and healthy as your outdoor landscape.
Originally posted on November 23, 2020.
