Caring for indoor plants in winter

Winter is a challenging time for indoor plants due to changes in temperature, light, and humidity. Plants typically thrive in warm, bright environments, but these conditions are scarce in winter. However, with proper preparation and care, you can help your plants thrive through the cold. Here are some helpful tips for caring for indoor plants in winter.

1. Provide Enough Light

In winter, the amount of natural sunlight decreases, especially on cloudy days. This causes indoor plants to lack light for photosynthesis. To solve this problem, you should place the plants near windows or in the brightest places in the house. If there is not enough natural light, you can use specialized LED lights for plants to supplement the light. LED lights not only help plants photosynthesize but also save energy, suitable for long-term use.

Additionally, you should rotate the plant pot regularly to ensure that all sides of the plant receive even light. Rotating the plant also helps the plant grow evenly and prevents it from “leaning” towards the light.

2. Adjust Watering

In winter, bonsai do not need as much water as in spring or summer because the plants enter a resting phase and their water needs are reduced. Over-watering in winter can cause waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. Only water when the soil is completely dry, and it is best to water in the morning so that the plants have time to absorb the water before the nighttime temperature drops.

When watering, make sure the water drains easily. If the plant is in a pot without drainage holes, check and replace the pot or make sure that water does not sit in the pot for too long. Also, avoid exposing the plant to direct cold water, as this can damage the roots.

3. Humidity Control

Indoor air can become very dry in the winter, especially when heating appliances are used. Low humidity is not good for many houseplants, so you need to increase the humidity around your plants. Some simple ways to increase humidity include:

• Place a tray of water near the plant to let the water evaporate naturally.
• Use a humidifier to keep the air in your home at the right humidity level.
• Group pots together to create a naturally humid space between plants.

One important note is that you should not mist the leaves too much during winter, as this can increase the risk of mold infection in the plant.

4. Temperature Adjustment

Temperature is an important factor in determining the growth of indoor plants. Winter can bring cold winds that can cause “thermal shock” to your houseplants if they are placed too close to windows or doorways. Keep your plants away from direct cold air from windows or air conditioners.

The ideal temperature for most indoor plants ranges from 18°C ​​to 24°C. Try to maintain a stable temperature, avoiding sudden changes in temperature.

5. Reduce Fertilization

During the winter, bonsai plants often enter a resting phase, so they do not need to be fertilized too much. If you over-fertilize, your plants may suffer from “root burn” because they cannot absorb all the nutrients. You can simply fertilize with a light organic fertilizer or stop fertilizing until the new growing season (usually in the spring).

Fertilizing in winter should only be done on plants that are still growing vigorously or have special nutritional needs. When fertilizing, use organic fertilizers or liquid fertilizers to ensure that the plants do not suffer from fertilizer “shock”.

6. Pruning Trees Properly

During the winter, plants typically slow down in growth, but you should still check for and prune yellow, dry, or wilted leaves to keep the plant clean and healthy. Pruning also helps the plant focus its energy on the remaining parts, allowing for more even growth when spring arrives.

When pruning, use sharp pruning shears to ensure clean cuts and avoid unnecessary damage to the plant. You can also remove weak or diseased shoots to help prevent the plant from becoming infected during the winter.

Plant care

Winter is a challenging time for indoor plant care, but with the right care, including adjusting light, water, humidity, and temperature, you can help your plants stay healthy and thrive through the winter. Pay attention to the unique needs of each plant and tailor your care to best suit your space. That way, your plants will be ready to burst into life come spring.