The cold winter months can be tough on indoor and outdoor plants. Many houseplants originate in tropical climates and aren’t accustomed to frosty temperatures. Even cold-hardy outdoor plants need some extra care to make it through the winter unscathed. Follow these tips to help your plants survive and thrive until spring arrives again.
Move Plants Indoors
Before the first freeze, bring any outdoor container plants you want to save indoors. Choose a spot near a sunny window where they’ll get the most natural light possible. Plants like citrus trees, hibiscus, and roses should be moved inside before temperatures drop below 45°F.
Tender perennials like geraniums and lantana can be overwintered indoors as well. Take cuttings and root them in pots to save the most vigorous plants. Just make sure your indoor conditions match the needs of the plants if in doubt you can always ask a local flower shop in Conroe TX for help.
Provide Supplemental Lighting
As day lengths get shorter in winter, indoor plants need supplemental lighting to mimic summertime exposure. LED plant lights on timers are an easy solution. Place the lights 6-12 inches above the plants and set the timer for 12-16 hours per day. This extra light keeps plants actively growing year-round.
South or west-facing windows are best in winter. Rotate plants weekly so all sides get exposure. If possible, use sheer curtains to allow more light in. Remove any decorations or plants that are blocking window access for your plants.
Boost Humidity
Heated indoor air can dry out and damage plants in winter. Run a humidifier nearby to keep humidity around 40-50%. Another option is to place plants on pebble trays filled with water. The evaporating water will provide humidity without making leaves too wet.
Misting plants is less effective but can help in a pinch. Be sure to mist in the morning so leaves dry completely before night.
Monitor Watering
Plants need less watering in winter since growth slows. Let the soil dry out a bit more between waterings. Always check soil moisture before adding more water. The top few inches should be barely dry before re-watering.
When watering, be sure to add enough until it drains out the bottom. This encourages deep roots. Avoid wetting leaves, which can promote disease in cold weather.
Protect Outdoor Plants
There are several ways to help outdoor plants( even if you got them from a florist in Conroe TX) withstand freezing winter temperatures:
Add mulch – A 2-4 inch layer of shredded bark, leaves, or evergreen branches insulates plant roots and prevents frost heaving.
Build mini greenhouses – Use cloches, cold frames, or DIY hoop houses over plants to trap heat all winter. Ventilate on sunny days.
Wrap or insulate containers – Insulate above-ground pots with bubble wrap or place in a garden box filled with straw. This prevents roots from freezing.
Prune selectively – Save major pruning for spring, but remove dead or damaged branches anytime to prevent disease.
Water when needed – Water outdoor pots whenever the soil thaws and becomes dry. Snow cover and rain provide moisture to in-ground plantings.
Fertilize Conservatively
Plants don’t require as much fertilizer in winter. Excess salts and minerals can even damage roots in the colder soil. If you do fertilize, use half-strength, water-soluble types like fish emulsion once a month.
Slow-release fertilizer applied in the fall will carry over nutrients through winter. Avoid high-nitrogen products since they stimulate lush, tender growth prone to freeze damage.
Now you can help your plants muscle through harsh winter conditions. With a little extra care, they’ll come back healthy and vigorous in the spring. The local flower shop can also help select hardy, winter-friendly plants if you’re looking to expand your indoor garden. For gorgeous floral arrangements that will brighten up your home all winter long, visit Bakers Bouquet online at www.bakersbouquet.com. Order a flower delivery in Woodlands TX today!