December 21st 2026, the Sun will make his return, but we have a whole lot of darkness to get through before then. The transition doesn’t happen overnight either, so we have a long way to go, but we also have some tips to help your indoor garden!
Plant care tips are not one size fits all, so there are a few things you need to take note of!
Where does your light come from?
Typically the winter light is less than that in summer, however this isn’t true for every home. For example, if you have a deciduous tree in front of your south facing window, you may get more bright direct light in the winter than in the summer. My aunt’s north facing windows get more light in the winter, when the field outside is blanketed in snow and reflecting more light than in the summer. The way the lighting in your home changes, can also change the way you need to care for your plants. It’s important to keep note of your environment to keep your plants happy!
Where does your heat come from?
Keep track of your heat sources and drafts in the winter. Most winter care tips suggest to reduce watering, but if your plants are placed near a heat source like a vent or space heater, they can dry out more quickly, despite not growing as much, or at all. If you have drafty windows, make sure to place your cold hardy plants closer to those areas. Many indoor houseplants love cooler temperatures, and it can even encourage growth or blooms, depending on the plant!
Are your plants still growing?
If your plants are happily putting out fresh new growth, even as the sun goes away, DONT STOP FERTILIZING! Your plant is still using the provided nutrients to grow, not every plant experiences winter dormancy! If your plant is still growing, but the growth is small and etiolated, its time to reduce your water, and maybe even pull it further from the light. Some plants cant help but etiolate in the winter, I just let them do their thing and give em a haircut in the spring, when the growth gets tight and big again.
Are your leaves yellowing?
This is NORMAL! Do not panic. Many plants drop leaves throughout the winter, focusing on root growth instead. If you want to prevent leaf drop, increasing humidity as your turn on your heat, and supplemental light will give you the best results, allowing your plants to grow happily all year!
Do you notice any pests?
Season changes often weaken plants, inviting pests to come have a feast! Keep an eye on your collection, and spray with 70% rubbing alcohol to instantly kill any pest that may have found its way on your plants! You can do this treatment every 3 days to take care of any infestation that may have taken hold.
Once you have your answers to the above questions, you can start planning your winter plant care! Here is a recap:
-
If your plant is still growing, dont change anything.
-
Dont water on a schedule, familiarize yourself with how your plant changes and adjust accordingly.
-
Pay attention to heat sources and drafts.
-
Yellow leaves are normal.
-
Grow lights help keep your collection looking it’s best year round.
-
Stop fertilizing and reduce water when your plant stops growing, or starts to etiolate.
-
DONT PANIC! We are in this together <3
If you are struggling with keeping up with plant care, send us a message! We are happy to come to your home and help you out!