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What happens to my houseplants in winter?
All it takes is a drop in temperature and a lack of sunshine for our dear green companions to start looking grey. Indeed, like all forms of life, houseplants are linked to the natural cycles of the seasons, and winter can be a particularly difficult time for them.
But don’t worry! There is a strategy, a winter ritual, that can help your plants survive and even thrive during this difficult period.
Light is the key
Our plants’ first adversary in winter is the lack of light. Daylight hours diminish and the sun itself is not as strong as in summer. This is why the first step in our winter ritual is to guarantee our plants maximum exposure to light.
Move your plants close to windows, and if this isn’t possible, consider using special plant lamps.
Watering
In winter, our homes are often warmer and drier due to heating. This can dry out the soil of our plants more quickly. However, this doesn’t mean that more water is needed, as plants in winter dormancy need much less. To find out when to water, check the soil moisture by sticking your finger into the top few centimetres. If the soil is dry, it’s time to water.
Fertilization, a care to be moderated
During winter, most plants enter a dormant phase, a bit like hibernation for animals. They slow down or even stop growing altogether. As a result, they don’t need much in the way of nutrients from fertilizers.
We recommend that you don’t fertilize your houseplants in winter, although there may be exceptions (such as winter-growing plants).
Controlling temperature
Finally, don’t forget that not all plants are made to withstand freezing temperatures. Tropical plants in particular have difficulty surviving temperatures below 13°C. Avoid placing plants near radiators and windows, which can get very cold at night.
Remember, your houseplants need you more than ever during the winter months. By following these tips, they’ll stay healthy and ready to burst into life come spring.
So, by adopting this winter ritual for your plants, you guarantee not only their survival, but also their flourishing even during the cold winter season.
