Winter care guide for indoor plants

 By - Sana Saha

It's winter season. I better take out the cosy bedsheets to keep myself warm throughout the season, but what about my plants?

As the seasons change outside, so does our plant care routine indoors. Sharing some simple tips to help keep our houseplants alive during the long, dark winter months. Being outdoors with houseplants is an easy way to ease the winter blues. 

 

Tip 1: Increasing the light 

We rarely see the sun in winter, and it's because it sets earlier, is lower in the sky, and is often covered by clouds. Make sure houseplants get enough light during this time. Most plants will adapt to the change of seasons in their current location, while others may need to be moved closer to a light source, such as a 

window, to receive more light. If the plants are visibly leaning towards the window, 

gradually turn them every few days to straighten them out. When plants have new growth, move them closer to the threshold. Adding additional lights to the room can also increase the light. 

 

Tip 2: Being mindful of temperature 

An extreme change in temperature or cold or hot air currents can stress indoor plants that are used to somewhat stable conditions. Keep plants away from open 

windows and doors and heaters and radiators (because they can dry them out 

quickly). Some plants are more sensitive to cold than others, but if you feel cold, your plants are probably more sensitive. Most common houseplant varieties prefer temperatures around 75°F or 24°C. 

 

Tip 3: Embracing dormancy 

Does it feel sleepy in winter? Plants also do this, thanks to shorter days and less sun. Many plants even remain dormant or semi-dormant during the winter months. 

And since plants take water only according to the amount of light they receive, this changes how often the plants are watered. You will notice that you are watering less often than in the spring-summer growing season. For most plants, you should wait until the plant is arid before watering again. You can also expect visible signs of thirst, such as wrinkled leaves on succulents or drooping stems on tropical plants with dry soil. 

 

Tip 4: Dusting off leaves 

Closed windows during the cold winter months can increase the chances of dust and indoor pollution. Dust and dirt build-up on plant leaves can reduce the amount of light reaching houseplants. Since the days are short, it is even more 

important than usual that the plants get as much light as possible. Help by gently dusting the leaves with a soft, damp cloth every few weeks. You can also add a lemon juice or dish soap drop or two. 

 

Tip 5: Give up fertilizers 

Because the plants do everything much more slowly during the winter, they don't benefit from the nutrients added by the fertilizer at this time. Give the plants a break until spring. If you actively grow a plant and give it a lot of light, you can fertilize it in half or less. 

 

Tip 6: Easy Vacation 

If you're heading out of town this winter to see family and friends or to spend a few days somewhere warm and sunny, here are some tips for keeping your plants alive 

while you're away. A plant clock is always a good choice, but you can also move the plants a little further from the light source after deep watering - the temporary lack of light makes the plants use less water and prevents them from drying out. Just be careful how long you'll be away, as houseplants require less maintenance during the winter. Going for a week or less? The plants should do well without additional preparation. 

 

Tip 7: Accepting leaf loss 

Indoor plants may naturally drop some leaves in fall and winter to compensate for the lack of light and, in turn, food. If your plant used to grow in the warmer months but now seems to be doing the opposite, don't worry. It simply adapts to the changing seasons. If your plant is overgrown, please cut off some of the older leaves, as this can help prevent leaf loss. This will also keep your plant fuller and bushier. 

Well what are you waiting for, start prepping both your plants and yourself for the upcoming chills. Make sure to follow all the necessary requirements and don't fall sick.