Winter Plant Care: Common Mistakes to Avoid and How to Keep Your Greenery Thriving

January 28, 2025

The winter months bring on a season of rest for your outdoor plants, but it is also a season of rest for your indoor plants as well. Even though indoor plants do not have to experience cold temperatures, snow, and frost, the conditions for growing plants are still affected. This means you’ll need to make changes in caring for your greenery to keep it healthy without making these common mistakes.

Mistake #1: Overwatering

Since the winter months do not have as much sunlight, there is less of a need for water. The spring and summer months bring lots of sunshine, which results in thirsty plants. However, in the winter months, plants do not receive as much sunshine, so they do not need as much water. Before going to water your plants, feel the soil to see if it’s dry.

Mistake #2: Failing to Pay Attention to Sunlight

The amount of sunlight available during the day impacts not only how much plants should be watered but also where you should place your plants. For potted plants that are on the floor, consider placing them on a plant stand or table to get them closer to a source of sunlight. Be sure to rotate them as well so that all sides of the plants receive sunlight.

Mistake #3: Extreme Temperatures

Plants do not like extreme heat or extreme cold. A typical heated home should be sufficient for houseplants during the winter months. However, if they are too close to a heat source, such as a heating vent or radiator, or are close to a drafty window, it can cause issues. Plants can become damaged, stressed out, or dried out even from short-term exposure to these extreme temperature changes.

Mistake #4: Fertilizing All Year Round

As many indoor plants rest during the winter, there is very little growing that takes place. Since new leaves and stems are not being produced, fertilizer is not necessary. This is why it is suggested that you stop giving your plants fertilizer in the fall and then continue fertilizing in the spring.

Mistake #5: Repotting in the Winter

It is better to repot plants when they are still growing. If a plant is dormant for the winter, it is not a good time to place it in a new pot. You may be tempted to find some cute new pottery to bring some springtime feelings during the doldrums of winter. However, you should resist this urge and wait until spring and summer for repotting.

Mistake #6: Failing to Keep the House Humid

The colder temperatures bring on drier air both outside and inside. Typically, houseplants do better when the humidity levels are at about 40-50%. However, most homes have humidity levels of 10-20% in the winter months. Increase the humidity levels in your home by either running a humidifier or keeping plants huddled together in one area.

Plants are a wonderful way to add a touch of natural elements to your home. These organic pieces of art must be given special attention, even during the winter months when there is little growth. To help you provide proper care for your indoor plants, visit us at Flower Works LLC

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