Missy's

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how to prepare your houseplants for winter: 5 tips

  1. Rotation and Restyling: As we cosy up for autumn’s fireside nights, think of it as a season of rejuvenation for your plant ensemble. Encourage even growth by periodically rotating your plants. Additionally, embrace the opportunity to refresh their surroundings with decorative accessories from around your home. 

2. Reach new heights with Moss Poles: If your trailing plants experienced a growth spurt over the summer, consider giving them an elegant makeover by allowing them to scale moss poles. Pothos and monkey face monsteras, in particular, thrive in this upward journey, reaching new heights of style and grace. 

3.  Pests on Patrol: While our windows are open in the summer, pests can sneak in and set up camp in your plant’s foliage. Safeguard your green companions by meticulously inspecting both sides of their leaves and administering a protective shield of organic cold pressed neem oil spray. I use this one. Or you can make your own with this recipe 

  • 1-3 spoons neem oil, pressed at home.
  • One gallon of water.
  • 1-2 spoons of mild detergent.
  • This process can be done whenever you water throughout the winter to keep unwanted visitors at bay.

4. Spa Day for Plants: As winter settles in, our indoor plants shift to a more dormant state and require less water. keep an eye on the top inch or two of your plant’s soil. Only water when this part of the soil feels dry to the touch. You can use a water meter for accuracy, or the tried-and-true finger test – if your finger comes out clean, postpone watering for a few more days. This practical approach ensures your plants receive the right amount of hydration during their winter rest.The residue of summer, including dust and debris, can dull your plants’ radiance. Pamper your green darlings with a rejuvenating spa day. Smaller plants can enjoy a gentle shower, while larger-leaved varieties benefit from a tender wipe-down, ensuring no nook or cranny is overlooked. Top to bottom, they’ll emerge clean and shiny! 

5. Sunlight Shuffle: Consider rearranging your plants as the sun takes a lower angle in the sky and daylight hours dwindle. Ensure they receive adequate sunlight by relocating them accordingly. For instance, relocating succulents to the windowsill guarantees they bask in the sun’s nurturing glow. 

Bonus Tip: In cases where natural light proves insufficient, particularly during chilly months, rest easy knowing you can introduce a growth-enhancing tool—a grow light—to sustain your indoor garden’s vibrancy throughout the year.