Winter Plant Care

So you brought home some plants in the winter... What do you do now?

 A change in seasons means adjusting plant care routines to suit the new conditions. Different plant species vary in their care requirements so be sure to do a little bit of research into the plants in your collection. That being said, we have a good general guideline to help you out.

Decrease watering - many plants experience a slower growth rate during the winter months and therefore need less water to stay hydrated.

Stop or reduce fertilizing - since plants aren’t growing as actively during this time they don’t require feeding. It's best to press pause on fertilizing until the Spring when your plant is showing signs of new growth. 

Wipe the leaves - plant leaves accumulate dust and therefore require wiping down from time to time. Dust build-up prohibits plants from properly photosynthesising, which is especially important during winter months when the days are shorter.

Keep plants away from cold drafts - many plants, especially tropicals, are sensitive to cold air. If you notice cold drafts coming from windows or doors, move your plants out of reach.

Adjust humidity levels - as we turn the heat on in our homes, the relative humidity drops and the air becomes drier. Be sure to attend to your houseplant's humidity and moisture needs by grouping them together, misting them, using a humidifier, or using a pebble tray. 

NOTE: This does not apply to cacti and succulents which require dry conditions.

Be aware of the sun - with the days slowly starting to get shorter, some of your plants may need to be moved to areas of your home that receive more light. We recommend rotating the pots each time you water your plants to ensure that they are growing evenly.

We always expect a little less growth in the winter, so with these tips, your plants should be able to adjust to the season and be ready to thrive again in the spring.

Happy growing!