How to Care for Houseplants During Winter Dormancy
Plants slow down in winter, requiring less water, fertilizer, and specific light and humidity adjustments. This guide outlines the essential changes to keep indoor plants healthy while they rest.
What you need
- Grow lights (supplemental)
- Humidifier or pebble trays
- Moisture meter or finger for checking soil
- Diluted fertilizer (quarter strength)
Steps
- Check soil moisture several inches down. Only water when the soil is completely dry. Depending on the plant and location, this might be every 2-3 weeks or less. Reduce watering significantly as plants use less water during dormancy.
- Maximize available light but avoid direct sunlight that can harm sensitive plants. Move plants closer to windows or use supplemental grow lights if necessary, as light needs are reduced but still required for health.
- Keep indoor humidity between 40-60% for most tropical plants using humidifiers, pebble trays, or by grouping plants together. Maintain temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) and protect plants from cold drafts and extreme temperature changes.
- Stop or minimize fertilizing. If you must fertilize, do so at most once monthly at quarter strength. Avoid repotting during this time as plants struggle to recover.
- Check regularly for pests like spider mites and scale insects, especially in dry conditions. Dry air increases pest activity and stress on plants.
Why it works
Why Reduce Water and Fertilizer?
Plants conserve energy during dormancy, reducing their uptake of water and nutrients. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while fertilizing can cause salt buildup and root damage. It is solid advice to hold back.
Why Adjust Light and Humidity?
Light remains necessary for overall plant health, even if needs are reduced. High humidity helps prevent stress and keeps plants hydrated, while temperature stability avoids shock. These adjustments are worth it for maintaining plant vigor.
Related on Gardeners Bible: Bring Houseplants Inside for Winter, Bring Tropical Houseplants Indoors for Winter, How to Repot Houseplants Without Causing Transplant Shock, Succession Sowing Techniques for Summer Lettuce, Radishes, and Peas.
If it goes wrong
Pest Issues
If you notice spider mites or scale insects, check your humidity levels. Dry conditions increase pest activity. Boosting humidity to the 40-60% range can help mitigate this stress.
Conflicting Advice on Watering
Sources disagree on exact frequency. Some suggest waiting for soil to be completely dry, while others advise checking moisture more often. Trust your finger test: check several inches down. If it is dry, water; if not, wait.
