Many plants won’t survive outdoor when the temperature starts to drop and likewise Even indoor plants can sometimes have a tough time surviving the winter. Fortunately, there’s a lot you can do to help your house plants make it through the winter in the best of health. There are few things that you should keep in mind as the winter season is at the doorstep. Although most outdoor plants might not survive the winter in freezing climates, they can be brought indoors as houseplants and taken back outdoor once the temperature is apt.
1. Always Keep An Eye On The Temperature
You will need to bring your plants indoors before nighttime temperatures dip below 45 degrees (F). Most tropical plants will suffer damage especially on tender new leaves and stem tips at temperatures below 40 degrees, a few even below 50 degrees.
2. Get Plants Adapted To Low Light
suddenly moving an outdoor plant to indoor might give them a shock. So, bring the plants to low light conditions by putting them in a shaded spot for a couple of weeks before moving them inside. Trim off the dried and overgrown stems and leaves before bringing them indoors.
3. Cut Down On Water And Fertilizer
All house plants go into hibernation mode over the winter, which means they don’t need as much water. If you water them at summer rates, the plant roots will rot and even get diseases. So caring for indoor beauties in winter starts with watering them less. Also, because they are in hibernation mode and not growing much they don’t need fertilizers as much as they need during growing stages.
4. Provide Light And Humidity
Using a humidifier can add additional moisture to the dry air during the winter and will help keep more delicate plant leaves from browning out and of course, it’s good for us, too! Even though your plants are resting, they still need bright, indirect light. Because days get very short in winter, you might want to consider using grow lights.
5. Watch Out For Pests
Winter pests are problematic for window plants. If they find your plants, they can easily spread throughout the house and do a lot of damage. Keep houseplants clean and watch for pests like mites. If you spot a problem, isolate the plant and treat it immediately.
6. Don’s Forget To Clean The Leaves
During the winter, homes tend to be closed up as we might go for vacations and more dust is accumulated on the leaves through the air. Dusty leaves are sad news, as they encourage disease and prevent house plants from absorbing sunlight. Lightly brush or wipe off the dust from the leaves of your plants every month or so.
GET READY FOR A GREENER HOME THIS WINTER!!!
Great post.