As leaves begin to turn and the days get shorter we look for ways to bring the garden indoors for the winter months. Indoor gardening doesn't get much easier than houseplants. By combining several different plants in a single container or in groups of containers you can create a living bouquet that will liven up your home all winter.
Winter Houseplant Care Tips
In general, houseplants need less water and fertilizer in winter because they are not in an active growth stage.
Most houseplants will do fine only being fed every three to six months. Unless it's a houseplant that flowers in winter I usually wait until spring to fertilize my houseplants. I use a liquid fertilizer, with a 5-10-5 ratio.
The number one killer of houseplants is over-watering. You should never let a plant sit in standing water. Excess moisture will smother the roots, which need oxygen to stay healthy. So, how do you know when to water? Just feel the soil. If it's dry, if the pot is light or if the leaves are beginning to droop, give it a drink.
Okay, we've covered food and water, but what about light? Natural light is at a premium this time of year. Most houseplants, particularly those that flower and those that have variegated leaves, may need an extra boost, so try a florescent light. This solution is inexpensive and effective. Yellowing leaves are a common sign that maybe your plants aren't getting enough light.
During the winter, our homes are hot and dry, so keep houseplants away from heat sources. You can raise the humidity by misting your plants regularly or placing the pot in a low dish of gravel and water.