As autumn settles in and temperatures begin to drop, your houseplants will require some special attention to ensure they thrive during the winter months.
With the shift in weather and light conditions, indoor plants can experience stress, leading to slow growth or even dormancy.
By making a few simple adjustments to your care routine, you can help your houseplants stay healthy and vibrant all winter long. Here’s how:
Adjust Watering Habits
As daylight decreases and temperatures cool, most houseplants enter a slower growth phase, meaning they need less water. Overwatering is a common mistake in the cooler months and can lead to root rot. Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out before watering, and always check the moisture level by sticking your finger into the soil. Reduce watering frequency, but ensure that when you do water, it’s thorough, so the roots receive adequate moisture.
Increase Humidity
Indoor air can become very dry in autumn and winter, especially when heating systems are in use. Many houseplants, particularly tropical varieties, thrive in humid conditions.
To increase humidity, you can
Use a Humidifier: Place a humidifier near your plants to maintain an ideal humidity level.
Mist Regularly: Lightly mist your plants with water every few days.
Create Humidity Trays: Place your plants on trays filled with pebbles and water. As the water evaporates, it increases the humidity around the plants.
Maximise Light Exposure
Shorter days mean less natural light for your houseplants. To ensure they get enough light:
Relocate Plants: Move your plants closer to windows where they can receive the most sunlight, ideally a south or west-facing window.
Clean Windows: Dust and dirt can block sunlight, so keep your windows clean.
Supplement with Grow Lights: If natural light is limited, consider using grow lights to provide the necessary light spectrum for photosynthesis.
Cut Back on Fertilising
Since houseplants grow more slowly in autumn and winter, they don’t need as many nutrients. Reduce or even stop fertilising during these months, as over-fertilising can lead to salt buildup in the soil, which can harm your plants. Resume regular feeding in the spring when growth picks up again.
Prune and Clean
Autumn is a good time to tidy up your houseplants. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves, as well as spent flowers. This not only keeps your plants looking their best but also prevents the spread of pests and diseases. Be cautious with pruning, though—only trim back what’s necessary, as heavy pruning can stress the plant during its slower growth period.
By making these adjustments to your autumn houseplant care routine, you can help your indoor garden not only survive but thrive during the winter months. Remember, each plant has its own specific needs, so take the time to understand what’s best for your particular collection. With a little extra care and attention, your houseplants will reward you with lush, healthy growth all year round.
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