QUESTION:
My winter care for plants just doesn’t seem to work. The plants do well all year and then practically die in the winter. Do you have any tips on how to care for plants in the winter?
ANSWER:
Winter Care for Plants
During the winter, when plants rest and do not grow very much, we need to change how we care for our green friends. Less natural light, drier air due to heaters warming our homes, and cooler temperatures affect how and when we water, feed, prune, and propagate our plants. Remember these tips for caring for plants in winter and your plants will do well until spring return
Water Less:
Soil does not dry out as quickly this time of the year, as it does the rest of the year, due to cooler air and slower plant growth. Also, most houseplants prefer to have drier soil in winter.
Light:
Light intensity during the winter is much lower. Move your plants closer to windows and other parts of your home where the light is better. You may have to move your plants several times from January to the end of March.
Fertilizer:
Most plants do not need to be fed during the winter. When the fertilizer is not absorbed because the plant is resting, it remains in the soil, burning the roots and causing leaf tip damage.
Temperature:
Although we adapt to big temperature changes in our home by putting on or taking off a sweater, plants can’t do that and are easily damaged when the temperature is too hot or too cold. Try to keep your plants away from heaters, fireplaces, and cold drafts from door and windows.
Humidity:
The heat in our homes makes the air very dry during winter. Low humidity may damage plant leaves and can encourage spider mites. Here are some ways to increase the humidity. Group plants together to create a mini greenhouse effect. Place a humidifier near your plants. Set your plant on a wet pebble tray; be sure the plant is sitting on the pebbles and not in the water. Misting may make you feel better but doesn’t really help the plants.
Propagating, Pruning, and Re-Potting:
Winter is not a good time to propagate, prune, or repot. Wait until the spring!
Conclusion
Learn special winter care for your plants to help them stay healthy until the spring growing season by clicking the link below the pictures. If you don’t see your plant listed, look for it in the Popular Houseplant section of the website or send a picture of the plant to me at: askjudy@houseplant411.com
