Even though our green friends are in pots, they still know what season it is outside. And while they keep their leaves nearly intact, plants go into hibernation mode during the colder months. As autumn fades into winter, we face shorter days, less light, lower temperatures, and dry air. As plant caregivers in this situation, it’s crucial to ensure they survive the winter. The cold season is tough on plants, so let’s explore what might go wrong and what you can do about it.

Let there be light!

Not only do we experience less ambient light starting around October, but the angle at which sunlight hits is also narrower. A crucial tip is to move your plants to the brightest spot in your home. Ideally, this would be a sunny veranda where they receive light from all directions.

A little secret: Rotate the pot a quarter turn each time you water the plant or whenever you think of it. This ensures that all sides receive some sunlight and the plant grows evenly. Once the plant gets enough light, it might be a bit thirsty too!

The temperature of the water matters!

The water you use to water your plants should be at room temperature. Otherwise, the shock of cold water will be unpleasant for the hibernating plant.

Resist the urge to water too much and too often

During the colder months, as less light enters through the windows, the process of photosynthesis in plants slows down, causing them to enter a period of dormancy. As a result, they require less water. If you continue to water them as you would in the summer, they might develop rot or diseases. Reduce watering to once every two weeks. For succulents, water only every two to three weeks, and for cacti, you can stop watering altogether. (Speaking of succulents, check out the charming varieties Floral Soul offers in our catalogue). A good test to determine when to water is to stick your finger into the soil—if it’s dry about an inch or two below the surface, it’s time to give the plant a drink. Once you’ve quenched its thirst, let’s see how its leaves are doing.

Give life to your leaves by cleaning them

Indoor plants often accumulate a thick layer of dust during the winter, as doors and windows tend to stay closed more often. Dusty leaves are undesirable because they promote the spread of diseases and hinder the plant’s ability to absorb the limited sunlight available. Regularly wipe the dust from both sides of the leaves using a damp cloth, or place the plant under a warm shower for five minutes.

Put plants on a diet

Remember, plants rest during the colder months and remain dormant or semi-dormant. They do not need fertilizers and will not benefit from them. Starting in March, you can resume fertilizing the soil in their pots.

Keep plants happy by grouping them together

Not only will they look cheerier together, but grouping is also highly effective, creating a microclimate around them that allows them to share moisture. Plants naturally release water through their leaves by transpiration, so grouping them helps make the most of that humidity. If you have space in your bathroom or kitchen, these are the best rooms to group your plants, where they can benefit from moisture from the shower and steam from cooking. Humidity is vital during winter. You can place a water tray nearby and, of course, mist them regularly.

Watch out for heat!

While we’re often concerned about keeping plants from freezing in the winter, we sometimes overlook the effects of heat. Avoid placing plants near heaters or fireplaces, as this can cause them to dry out.

Are your windows well-insulated?

Many plants, especially tropical varieties, are sensitive to cold drafts. They may drop their leaves in response to a sudden chill! Ensure your windows are properly sealed and insulated, and keep your plants away from temperature fluctuations, such as those near windowsills and doors.

And now – play some music.

Our green friends tend to prefer classical music over rock and roll. Though, sometimes it feels like your ficus is swaying its leaves to the rhythm of a rock anthem!

Cold-resistant plants with which you can decorate your home in winter:

ZZ plant (Zamioculcas) goes months without water by storing water in its potato-like underground rhizome.

Sansevieria tolerates low light levels well.

Succulents are not only easy to care for, but also very hardy.

You can find them individually in the Floral Soul catalogue.

With a love for plants,

Floral Soul

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