Keep your flowers thriving: Essential tips for fall and winter care
Healthy and beautiful flowers are a dream for many of us. However, caring for them in the fall and winter can be challenging. You just need to know a few simple rules that will make the plants look dazzling all year round.
7:12 PM EST, November 8, 2024
Fall is the time when our potted plants may lose their vibrant appearance. Leaves turn yellow, flowers wither, and we wonder what went wrong. This phenomenon affects many varieties of flowers. Several factors influence the poor condition of plants during this period, including a lack of light, high indoor temperatures, or low air humidity. How can you deal with it?
Take care of your potted plants during the fall and winter season
Potted plants require special attention and care from early October to the end of February. It's essential to observe primarily the appearance of the leaves, which often reveal the condition of the whole plant. It's worthwhile to adjust cultivation methods to the individual needs of each variety and avoid the most common care mistakes that affect their health.
Temperatures are dropping, and the air is getting dry. A key aspect is optimal watering. This activity is essential, but overwatering should be avoided. Before the next watering, check the soil moisture with your finger—if the soil is dry at a depth of a few inches, it's a sign that it's time to add water.
Sunlight is equally important. Days are shorter and darker, so moving the plants closer to a window is advisable to provide better access to natural light. Plants need sun rays to promote blooming. A lack of sufficient sunlight can cause plants to shed leaves and dry out.
We should regulate the surrounding temperature. Remember to keep potted flowers away from heat sources like radiators, stoves, and heaters. Most of them prefer a stable thermometer reading, between 64 and 72 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid drafts! Houseplants particularly dislike sudden gusts of cold air.
It's worth considering matching the pot. A pot that is too tight or of poor quality can adversely affect the growth of some species. Don't forget about fertilization. Many plants may require gentle nutrient support every few weeks. What should you choose?
Appropriate fertilizer for potted plants
What young potted plants particularly need is a set of three elements: phosphorus, calcium, and potassium, which you can find in potato or corn starch. This product, available in virtually every store, will help plants revive and grow, and some may even produce new buds.
How to do it? Simply remove about 0.6 inches of soil from the pot with the flower and pour a teaspoon of potato or corn starch inside. Now mix it thoroughly with the soil and then sprinkle everything with fresh soil. Remember, it's crucial that the soil is fresh—otherwise, mold may appear in the pot after a few days.
