Plant BuddhaSeasons
Winter plant care: slow down, don't stop
When days shorten and the heating comes on, most houseplants slide into a slower gear. Meet them there and they'll glide through to spring.
Water less, check more
Less light and cooler temperatures mean soil dries more slowly, so plants need less water. Keep checking the soil rather than following your summer rhythm.
Pause the fertilizer
Most plants rest in winter and don't need feeding. Pick it up again in spring when you see new growth.
Give them the best light you have
Move plants closer to windows, since the sun is weaker and lower. Wipe dusty leaves so they can use every bit of light.
Watch the air
- Keep plants away from radiators, heating vents and cold drafts from windows and doors.
- Group plants together, which makes a slightly more humid pocket.
- A pebble tray or a humidifier helps humidity-lovers like ferns and calatheas. Misting gives only a brief boost.
Mind the glass
Leaves touching a freezing window pane can get chilled. Slide plants back a few inches on cold nights.
In the southern hemisphere? Flip the calendar: your slow season is roughly June to August.