As the days get shorter and the temperatures drop, it's time to bring your beloved houseplants indoors for the winter. With a little preparation, you can ensure that your plants thrive and remain healthy throughout the colder months.
Inspecting for Pests and Removing Leaf Debris
Before bringing your plants inside, carefully inspect them for any signs of pests. Look for tiny insects, fine webbing, sticky residue, or tiny stippling-like dots/blemished leaves. If you find evidence of pests, look them up and treat them immediately to prevent them from spreading to your other plants. Common indoor plant pests include mealybugs, thrips, whitefly, spider mites, and fungus gnats.
Treating Pests:
Monterey Horticultural Oil: We recommend using Monterey Horticultural Oil for mealybugs, thrips, whiteflies, and spider mites.
Systemic Granular: A systemic granular can be used to treat mealybugs, thrips, fungus gnats, and other pests. However, avoid using systemics on flowering plants that will be brought back outdoors in the spring as the systemics may still be in their system and they can harm beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies.
Mosquito Beater: This product is a great alternative to systemics for treating fungus gnats.
Removing Leaf Debris: Clear away any fallen leaves or debris from the soil, as this can harbor pests and diseases.
Washing/Wiping Leaves Down
Dust and dirt can accumulate on plant leaves, hindering photosynthesis. Gently wash or wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to remove any buildup and help remove potential pests.
Gradually Reduce Light Exposure
Light is the most critical aspect when bringing your plants indoors! Plants that have been outdoors all summer may be accustomed to more light than they'll receive indoors. To avoid shock, gradually reduce the amount of light they receive outdoors over a few days by moving them into shadier locations and then finally indoors.
Finding the Perfect Indoor Location
Once you've brought your plants inside, find a location with bright, indirect light. Simply put, make sure it has a view of the sky but not the sun. While direct sun in the wintertime is less intense, be aware that your leaves can burn with harsh midday direct sun. Avoid placing them near cold drafts or heat sources.
Additional Tips
Watering: Adjust your watering based on the plant's needs and the indoor humidity. Heating units that blow hot air can dry out soil quicker so your plant may need more water in the winter. On the other hand, with reduced light and cooler temps the soil might stay wet longer. When you water should be determined by the moisture in the soil and not a schedule.
Fertilizing: Many plants don't require fertilization during the winter months. However, if your plant is actively growing, you may need to provide a diluted fertilizer.
Humidity: Some plants require higher humidity levels. Consider using a humidifier or placing your plant on a pebble tray filled with water, just keep the water level below the base of the pot so it's not sitting in water.
By following these steps and addressing any pest or disease issues, you can successfully bring your houseplants indoors for the winter and enjoy their beauty throughout the colder months.
If you need any of the products mentioned above or have questions about what to get, stop into the shop and one of our plant associates will be happy to help you out!
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