In autumn, sensitive potted plants are well packed or brought into the house to overwinter. But there are also some basic rules for indoor plants so that they survive the winter well. There are a few things to consider so that indoor plants get through the winter well. We reveal what to look out for.
Indoor plants also suffer from dry heating air and a lack of light in winter. In order for the plants to feel as comfortable as possible, there are some basic rules that you should follow and mistakes that you should avoid. As is so often the case, the art of finding the right balance is – the needs of indoor plants differ significantly from winter to summer.
Hibernate indoor plants properly
Keep an eye on your indoor plants in winter. As soon as you notice the first signs that the plant is not comfortable in its allotted place, try to find out what the problem is.
- More light: move your plants to a bright place in winter. Since it is darker in winter and the hours of sunshine are rather sparse, shade-loving indoor plants are also happy about a sunny spot.
- Avoid cold shock: Make sure that the leaves of the indoor plants do not touch the cold window pane. In addition to the planter, place the pots on a coaster made of wood, cork or felt. This will prevent the roots of the plants from cooling down. In addition, position the plants so that they are not permanently exposed to cold drafts. If you ventilate in freezing temperatures, move the houseplants away from the window.
- Not too warm: Plants are not good at the other extreme either: As for us humans, temperatures between 18 and 21 degrees are the healthiest for indoor plants in winter – these values can, however, differ for some plants. In general, the temperatures for the plants should not drop below 12 degrees even at night.
- Watering with moderation: in winter indoor plants need less water. Before watering, always check whether the soil in the flower pot is dry. Pour off excess water in the planter.
- Provide moisture: Most plants are happy about a higher air humidity. Especially when the air in the room is very dry, it is good for the indoor plants if you spray them once a week with room-temperature, low-lime water. Moist expanded clay balls in the saucer also increase the humidity around the plant. Plants with large leaves in particular do well if you gently wipe them off with a damp cloth once a week. In addition to moisture, this also removes dust, and the plant can make better use of the available light.
- Check for pest infestation: look out for signs of pest infestation. Signs of scale insects are sticky coatings, spider mites reveal themselves through pale, speckled leaves. Also check the underside of the leaves, this is where the pests like to hide. If you spot an infected houseplant, move it to a separate room and treat with pesticide.
