Winter is coming, and it’s time to wrap up… not just you, but your leafy pals too! Winter can be a tough time for houseplants, with less sunlight, dry air, and colder temperatures. But don’t worry; with a few seasonal, easy-to-follow tips you can keep your plants cosy, healthy, and thriving all winter long
1. Light is Limited. Shift Your Plants for the Best Views!
Winter means shorter days and less sunlight, and your plants notice this too. Many plants slow down their growth naturally in winter, but they still need light to stay healthy. Here’s how to help them make the most of what little light is around:
- Move them closer to a window: South-facing windows usually get the most sunlight, so place your plants nearby to soak up every last bit. West or east-facing windows work too if you’re short on space. Just be careful not to press them right against the chilly glass.
- Rotate them occasionally: Give your plants a little spin every couple of weeks, so each side gets a dose of light. This helps them grow evenly and prevents them from leaning awkwardly in one direction.
- Consider a grow light: If your space is especially dark in winter, a small LED grow light can help if you set it up on a timer for a couple of hours each day. LED grow lights are energy-efficient and gentle on plants. Your plant will think it’s on a tropical vacation!
2. Water Less, But Don’t Skip Hydration Checks
Plants, like us, slow down in winter and don’t need as much to drink. Overwatering is one of the most common ways to accidentally harm your plants in winter. Here’s a tip to find the right balance:
- Check the soil moisture first!: Stick your finger about an inch deep into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it’s even slightly damp, hold off and check again in a few days.
- Water in the morning so the soil absorbs moisture before the nighttime temperature drops. Always empty the saucer beneath the pot after a few minutes so the plant isn’t sitting in water, soggy roots can lead to rot.
- Mind the plant type: Some tropical plants, like ferns, still appreciate a little more water, while succulents need much less during the winter. Adjust your routine based on each plant’s preference.
3. Humidity Is Key
Indoor air tends to get really dry in winter, especially with heaters running. Most houseplants are tropical and enjoy a more humid environment, so it’s time to get creative:
- Group plants together: Placing several plants close to each other creates a mini humidity bubble as they release moisture through their leaves.
- Set up a pebble tray: Set your plant pot on a shallow tray filled with water and pebbles, ensuring the pot’s base isn’t sitting directly in the water. The water will evaporate slowly around the plant, giving it that extra bit of moisture.
- Invest in a humidifier: If you have lots of tropical plants or sensitive species like ferns or orchids, a small room humidifier is a lifesaver. Keep it nearby but not too close, and your plants will thank you by staying lush all winter long.
4. Keep Things Cosy (But Not Too Warm!)
Most houseplants prefer temperatures between 18°C and 23°C during the day and no lower than 12°C at night. Watch out for cold draughts from windows or doors that could give your plants a chilly shock:
- Avoid placing plants near heaters or vents: Hot air can dry them out quickly and make them more susceptible to stress.
- Insulate windows or place plants a few feet away: If you have single-pane windows or particularly draughty spots, it’s better to keep your plants a little distance away or close the curtains at night.
5. Hold Off on Fertiliser, Winter is a Time to Rest!
During winter, most plants go into a kind of dormancy, so they don’t need that extra boost of nutrients. Fertilising during winter could actually stress them out and result in weak, leggy growth. Here’s a good rule:
- Pause feeding until spring: Most plants will be happy with just water until they start showing signs of new growth in spring. Then you can get back to feeding them with a balanced fertiliser to help them kickstart their growing season.
6. Dust Off Those Leaves!
Dust can block precious sunlight from reaching your plant’s leaves. Plus, a little cleaning makes them look their absolute best. How to spruce them up:
- Gently wipe leaves with a damp cloth: A soft microfiber cloth works well, or you can use a damp paper towel. Be gentle to avoid damaging delicate leaves.
- Use a gentle shower for larger plants: If you have a big plant like a monstera or rubber tree, you can occasionally give it a shower with lukewarm water to wash off any stubborn dust.
7. Look Out for Pests (They Love a Warm Home Too)
Winter can bring some sneaky pest problems as the warmth indoors can encourage bugs like spider mites and aphids. Here’s how to keep an eye on things:
- Inspect leaves regularly for any signs of pests. Look under leaves and along stems, especially if you notice yellowing or tiny webbing.
- Isolate new plants or recently re-potted ones for a week or two before placing them near others, just to make sure no pests are hitchhiking along.
8. Embrace the Slow Season
Winter is a time for both you and your plants to take it easy. If you see slower growth or even a few yellowing leaves, don’t panic. Your plants are in a natural resting phase, and they’ll spring back to life when the warmer weather returns.
With these winter plant care tips, your houseplants will be well-prepared to survive, and even thrive, through the winter months. So grab a hot choccy, snuggle up, and enjoy the season together with your green friends.
If you have any questions about your plant pals, speak with our in-house experts, The Plant Folk, here!