Having houseplants and watching them grow is a pleasurable hobby for many people. Unfortunately, it's not unusual for these plants to perish. Since many houseplants become dormant or have a significant slowdown in growth during the winter, they need special care.
The colder temperatures, drafts, and dry heated air inside our homes in the winter can be too much for some common houseplants. Many of these are low-light plants that do well as indoor plants and even flourish during the shorter days of winter. Many popular houseplants are tropical plants that need specific attention when brought out of their original humid environment.
While some plants, like succulents, require very particular treatment throughout the winter months, all plants rely on people to provide them with the ideal conditions for growth.
The slower growth of houseplants during winter is a clue that they require much less watering than in the summer. Rotting can occur if you overwater. How much water your plants need varies from plant to plant, but in the winter months, it is generally sufficient to water once every 2 weeks.
As the days become shorter, it's essential to reposition your houseplants so that they're getting as much light as possible. Be aware that there may be a draft of cold air blowing through the windows. Be sure to read up on the plant's light requirements before bringing it indoors, as the sensitivity to light differs from plant to plant.
Most houseplants cannot tolerate rapid shifts in temperature, making them vulnerable to damage throughout the winter when they are subjected to both warm air from radiators and fireplaces and cold air from open windows and doors. The key to their well-being is a stable temperature.
There are many types of houseplants that like cooler temperatures. Heating in the winter makes things much drier, and the dryness already present in homes makes it even worse for them. Your houseplants will appreciate it if you maintain a humid environment for them.
Your plants won't benefit from the extra nutrients fertilizer gives during the winter because they are doing everything at a much slower rate. Wait till spring to tend to your plants. As long as you're giving it enough light, a half-strength fertilizer should be fine.
Take into account the ideal temperature range for your plants and move them away from drafty windows and space heaters if necessary. Most indoor plants dislike sudden temperature changes, which can be a problem in the winter when they are subjected to heat from fireplaces and radiators as well as cold drafts from doors and windows. Keeping temperatures stable is the key to their happiness.
Dust accumulation on leaves can reduce airflow, which in turn invites bugs. It's important to clean frequently, especially before the winter. In addition, if you want to stop the spread of illness or pests, you need to remove any unhealthy or infected leaves.
A brush is needed to clean these plants. Use water to spray them down later. Use a brush when cleaning hairy plants or cactus instead of water or a spray. Damaged or wilting leaves can be plucked off the plant's main stem.
Pest can harm your houseplants as they scuttle inside your home away from the winter cold. They will nest near your heaters and humidifiers, while snacking on your indoor plants. Watch out for the following winter pests on your plants:
Houseplants often lose some leaves in the fall and winter as a defense mechanism against famine, when daylight hours decrease. Even if your plant, which was thriving in the spring and summer, is now exhibiting indications of deterioration, you shouldn't worry. It's only adjusting to the changing seasons. To prevent more leaf loss, it may be necessary to prune your plant if it has grown too large. It also aids in keeping your plant looking full and bushy.
Plants are wonderful year-round additions to any home. However, plants also require attention during this time of year for them to thrive. Scientists and medical professionals have linked winter to an increase in depressive symptoms. The shorter days and lower temperatures make people want to stay indoors and can cause the "winter blues" or Seasonal Affective Disorder.
Evidence suggests that green plants help clean the air, which enhances the mental and physical well-being of a person. Humidity is also raised by plants. They can also be used to keep the temperature comfortable inside a building.
Making some adjustments to the inside of your home can improve your disposition during the colder months when you spend more time inside. Remember this and implement the required measures to ensure the longevity of your indoor garden.