Plants Indoors

Winter is the time to hibernate. During this season, we get to see puffy coats, space heaters, flannel streets. This time, however, is not that good for outdoor plants. Temperature dipping below 32 degrees Fahrenheit can kill off the vegetation pretty quickly.

Frosted leaves can turn black or brown. Ice crystals prevent water from reaching vegetative tissues. Such a situation can result in instant damage to your plants. The best way to deal with such a scenario is to bring your brands indoors.

Here are some steps that you may want to consider in this regard.

Monitoring the temperature

Most houseplants that you have may not tolerate temperatures below 45-degree Fahrenheit. That’s where you have to keep an eye on the thermometer and start bringing your plants indoors when the temperature reaches 50 degrees. Make sure that you are bringing those plants through a gradual process to help them adapt to a change in light and humidity level.

Inspecting the foliage

 

Houseplants may become breeding grounds for insects and pests. The most common pests that stick to indoor plants are spider mites, aphids, mealybugs, and other tiny creatures. These pests can jump to other plants as well. The best way to deal with them is to hose off the plants using a water sprayer. You can also apply neem oil to keep those pests at bay.

Pruning or repotting

If you are pruning those plants back, make sure not to clip off more than one-third of their leaves and stems. Follow the same measures while pruning the roots. If you are repotting, make sure to use bigger pots.

Choosing a location

 

Before bringing the plants in, make sure to choose a location that suits them well. The south-facing window is the best spot to place your plants. You can place these plants at any location where there is an abundance of light. You may also purchase plant light from a local garden store. Avoid keeping those plants near heaters and radiators, because dry air can cause the problem.

Alternative options

You can start the acclimation process by bringing your plants indoors during the night and taking them back outside during the day. You will need to do it for several days. While doing so, increase the number of hours you keep plants indoors. Eventually, you will be able to keep those plants indoors the entire day and night. Remember, indoor plants do not need much water. So, you can water them only when the soil is dry.

You can start bringing your plants outdoors when the temperature remains above 60 degrees during the day and night. The process of taking them back outside has to be as gradual as bringing them indoors.

Remember to keep in check the plant's health. While you may be able to notice any change without any efforts, some problems are not visible to the naked eye. You can discuss these matters in detail with experts. Follow their instructions to avoid any problem with your plants.