5 Misconceptions About Indoor Plants During the Winter Months That Can Negatively Impact Their Growth

Contrary to popular belief, the growth of indoor plants is not halted during the colder seasons.

Debunking Winter Houseplant Myths

From the durable corn plant to the whimsical, Dr. Seuss-like aeonium, indoor plants add color and life to any space during the colder months. Regardless of whether your collection includes low-maintenance succulents or a variety of tropical plants, it’s essential to dispel common myths about caring for houseplants in winter.

Winter Care for Houseplants: Tips and Myths

While most indoor plants do not require special attention during the winter months, it is essential to provide them with the basics they need throughout the year. This includes ensuring they receive adequate light, water, and any necessary maintenance. Even though it may appear that they are not actively growing during this time, it is crucial to continue caring for them as usual.

Winter conditions can significantly differ from those in the summer, even within the warmth of your home. Therefore, it is vital to closely monitor your plants and observe any signs they may exhibit. Regular inspections every few days can help you identify and address any issues promptly. Look for unusual markings on the leaves or check if the soil is excessively dry or waterlogged. By paying close attention to your plants, you can better understand their preferences and create an environment where they can flourish and survive the winter season.

Common Myths About Winter Care for Indoor Plants

Discover the most prevalent misconceptions about caring for houseplants in winter and learn the correct practices to ensure your plants thrive.

Myth #1: Adjusting Watering Frequency for Winter Months

Even though plants require consistent watering throughout the year, winter allows for a more flexible schedule. Instead of following a strict weekly routine, test the soil moisture by inserting a finger. In indoor environments with dry air due to heating systems, you might actually need to water more frequently in winter. The watering frequency depends on the specific conditions within your home.

Plants exposed to LED grow lights may require more frequent watering, necessitating checks every few days. Conversely, some plants may need less water if their growth rate has slowed compared to summer. Monitor the soil conditions closely and adjust the watering regimen accordingly to prevent over-saturation, which can result in root rot and plant demise.

Myth #2: Misting Houseplants to Boost Humidity

While many houseplants thrive in tropical environments and require higher humidity levels, misting them won’t significantly increase the humidity indoors. In fact, you would have to mist your plants every few minutes throughout the day to make any noticeable impact.

If you want to increase humidity, consider using a small humidifier or clustering multiple plants together to benefit from the natural transpiration process. By maintaining proper watering habits and avoiding excessively wet or dry soil, most houseplants can adapt well to lower indoor humidity levels.

Myth #3: Houseplants Aren’t Actively Growing in the Winter

Contrary to popular belief, houseplants do not actually go dormant in the winter, although their growth may be affected by indoor conditions. While lower light levels in winter can slow down growth, this is not always the case.

In fact, some plants may experience a winter growth spurt if they are exposed to grow lights or receive direct sunlight near a window for a few hours daily. It is also acceptable to repot your plant during winter if it has become too big for its current container.

Myth #4: Your Indoor Plants Don’t Require Fertilizer During Winter

Indoor plant care during winter varies depending on the environment inside your home. For plants that are not actively growing, it is advisable to withhold fertilization until spring.

However, certain fast-growing plants like vines or those receiving artificial grow light may benefit from regular doses of fertilizer in the winter months. It is essential to observe the plant’s growth: if it is producing new leaves or showing signs of growth, then it may be appropriate to fertilize during this time.

Debunking Myths: Common Pests on Houseplants During Winter

Despite the belief that pests are less common on houseplants in winter, the reality is quite the opposite. Pests like spider mites, scale, and aphids can still thrive indoors during the colder months. The warm and snug environment of your home provides an ideal breeding ground for these pests, as there are no natural predators indoors to control their population. This risk is heightened when plants are brought indoors from outdoor areas like porches or patios.

Regularly inspect your plants for pests, especially when watering, as infestations can escalate rapidly if left untreated. It is essential to accurately identify the pests and take immediate action to address the issue. If a plant is found to be infected, isolate it from other plants until the infestation is resolved to prevent further spreading.