As temperatures plummet and central heating systems hum into action, experts are urging houseplant owners to take extra precautions to keep their greenery healthy.
Gardeners’ World has issued a timely reminder that the cold months can pose unique challenges for indoor plants, particularly due to the drying effects of central heating and reduced natural light.
They said: “Give houseplants extra humidity to combat the drying effects of central heating.”
Indoor heating can strip moisture from the air, leaving many houseplants struggling to thrive.
To mitigate this, experts recommend increasing humidity around plants.
This can be achieved in a few different ways.
You could try grouping your plants together because plants release moisture through transpiration, which can help create a more humid microclimate when clustered.
Another way is to use a small humidifier near your plants, which can make a significant difference.
Alternatively, you could lightly mist your plants regularly to boost humidity quickly, but be careful not to overdo it, as soggy leaves can encourage mould.
With shorter days and weaker sunlight, many houseplants may struggle to photosynthesize effectively.
Gardeners’ World advises relocating plants to sunny spots where they can soak up as much natural light as possible during the day.
If sunlight is scarce in your home, consider indoor plants like snake plants, pothos, or ZZ, which can thrive in lower light conditions.
Other tips can also improve the overall health of your plants over winter.
You should probably avoid overwatering during winter. Most plants require less water during their dormant phase, so always check the soil before watering.
Also, keep plants away from cold drafts near windows and doors and hot, dry air from radiators.
By following these simple steps, houseplant owners can ensure their greenery survives and even thrives through the winter months.
