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Gardening during cold seasons can be very challenging. You never know what to expect: It can snow, be unusually warm, become highly humid, or dry up drastically. These changes could significantly affect your garden and outdoor plants. Even if you stick to buying local plants that grow in your area, chances are nature can sometimes be rough. Here are some tips to get you covered and help your plants thrive even in the harshest of conditions.
Steps To Save Your Plants During Fall and Winter
1. Bring outdoor plants indoors
There are several garden plants that can survive perfectly when grown indoors as houseplants. The winter sunlight may not be enough to keep them healthy outside. Some common plants you need to take in include coleus or fuchsia. They will remind you of your garden and offer a glimpse of the next to come in warmer seasons.
2. Keep the plants moderately warm
Plants such as fan flowers and strawberry plants are susceptible to cold air. It would be best to protect such plants against the cold air experienced during these seasons. Ensure they are out of cold's way, and they can continue to thrive. You can manage this by moving some of your plants into the house. However, make sure the warmth is moderate. Don't heat the pants or place them near fire or vents. Hot air is just as bad as cold air for the plants. The best conditions for most plants range from about 65-75 degrees fahrenheit in the day and above 50 degrees fahrenheit at night.
3. Reduce watering and use warm water
A majority of plants go dormant to survive these seasons so that they use minimal amounts of water. Use your judgment and follow standard watering procedures for the plants. The best way to do this is to water your plants when you feel the soil is dry. Warm water during winter helps keep your plants warm. Under warm temperatures, they will grow faster and more extensively.
4. Clean the Plants Regularly
During winter, the sunlight is in short supply. Plants can quickly suffocate when their leaves acquire dirt that will block the intake of the little available light. Use a gentle handheld sprayer to clean your plant leaves about once every two weeks. Clean leaves are more efficient in carrying out photosynthesis.
5. Give Your Plants Plenty Light
Plants require more light than anything during these months. You have to be more careful where you place the plants to ensure they get maximum light every day. You can rotate your pots according to the time of day and the movement of the light. If there is no natural sunlight, use a full-spectrum light bulb to illuminate the plants for at least 12-14 hours each day.
6. Increase Humidity in the Building
Another requirement for healthy plants is humidity. You can achieve this by clustering your plants in the most humid areas in your home, like near the bathroom or kitchen. Ensure the plants do not come in contact with water when trying to increase the humidity around them.
Benefits of Caring and Maintaining Your Plants
People enjoy caring for plants for many different reasons. One notable reason includes the beauty they add to your living space. However, studies show that taking care of plants boosts your mood, concentration, productivity, and creativity. It is an easy way to relieve stress and fatigue. In the long run, you will be happier and enjoy watching the plants grow. Fortunately, there are many choices of plants to start your gardening ideas.