6 Easy Tips for Houseplant Care in Winter

I love having houseplants! Especially during the Winter months when everything is bleak outside. Having lovely green houseplants adds freshness to your home. Winter is the quiet season because the plants outside aren’t doing much and that goes for your indoor plants as well! And though they are indoors not having to deal with the harsh weather, there are subtle environmental changes in your home that can affect them. Today, I want to share a few tips on how to care for your houseplants to keep them thriving throughout the Winter!

How to Care for Your Houseplants in Winter

1. Keep the foliage clean

This first tip is important for all times of the year. But, during the Winter, the days are shorter meaning less light. So, for your plants to make the most of the limited sunlight this time of year, it’s important to keep their leaves dust-free. A damp cloth will work fine for this job or you can give them a gentle spritz in the shower!

2. Reduce watering

Generally speaking, less sunlight means less water is needed. During the Summer, when your plants are actively growing they need more water. So a plant that you water once a week in the Summer, may need to be watered every other week during the Winter. Instead of having a watering schedule, stick your finger about an inch below the surface of the soil to check the moisture before watering.

3. Look out for houseplant pests

Aphids and spider mites are common house plant pests during the Winter because they favor warm dry conditions. Look under the leaves and along the stems. If you do find them, try removing them with a damp cloth or alcohol-soaked cotton ball. If something stronger is needed, Neem oil is a great and safe option to get rid of an infestation.

4. Don’t fertilize

Since your plants are resting, they do not require fertilizer. Pause fertilizing in the Fall and resume in Spring.

5. Move your plants

Since they are getting less sunlight, it is a good idea to move your plants closer to a window. Plants that are on the floor can be placed on plant stands to take advantage of what sunlight there is.