Caring for Your Houseplants in Autumn and Winter

The indoor plant craze is stronger than ever, and if you’re one of the proud plant parents, you know that your leafy buddies deserve a little extra love as the colder months approach. So, whether you’re nurturing a delicate orchid, a stylish peace lily, or the trendy mother-in-law’s tongue, here’s how to keep your indoor jungle thriving.

Bring Indoor Plants Back Inside

If you’ve been enjoying the Summer sun with your indoor plants on the patio, it’s time to bring them back indoors before the chill sets in. Many house plants come from tropical regions and aren’t fans of cold nights. Frost can be their worst enemy, so keep them cosy indoors.

Consider Light Levels

As the days get shorter, think about the natural light your plants are getting. If you can, move your green friends from north-facing rooms to sunnier south or west-facing spots in your home. They’ll soak up that precious filtered sunlight.

Dust Off and Declutter

It’s not just you who’s doing some Autumn cleaning; your plants need it too! Dust can hinder photosynthesis and make your plants look a bit sad. Grab a damp cloth or a piece of damp cotton wool for those slender leaves and gently wipe away the dust. Support the leaf’s underside with your hand to avoid damage.

If your plants are losing a leaf or two, don’t fret; it’s part of their adjustment to the season. But if they’re shedding excessively, check for aphid infestations or whether it’s time for a new pot and fresh compost.

Adjust Feeding and Watering

Give your plants a break from feeding, as they’re best fed during their active growth period from March to October. Overwatering or letting the soil dry out are common plant problems. While they need less water in the cooler months, central heating can still dry out the soil. Instead of relying solely on the surface, poke your finger about an inch into the soil to check for moisture.

Most house plants need watering every week or two during Autumn and Winter, while succulents and cacti can go even longer between drinks. Also, keep in mind that indoor plants prefer room-temperature water, not cold water.

Boost Humidity

Indoor heating can create a dry atmosphere, which isn’t great for your plants. Boost humidity by misting their leaves regularly with tepid water or placing pots in trays of moist gravel to create a humid microclimate. Just keep them away from the dry air near radiators where temperatures can fluctuate.

Re-Pot as Needed

In an ideal world, you’d re-pot your indoor plants in Spring, but sometimes they need a change of scenery sooner. If they’re pot-bound or showing signs of nutrient deficiency, like yellowing leaves or a lack of flowers, consider moving them to a larger pot with fresh, well-draining house plant compost. Choose a pot slightly bigger than the current one to help them thrive.

Give your indoor green pals the care they deserve this Autumn and Winter, and they’ll reward you with their vibrant presence all season long.