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Winterizing Plants
Winter Plant Care: A Guide to Helping Your Green Friends Thrive
As the days grow shorter and the air turns cooler, it's time to think about how to protect your favorite plants from the harsh winter weather. While some may see this as a time of dormancy, it can also be an opportunity to bring your outdoor plants indoors and give them a cozy winter home. With a little care and attention, your plants can survive the cold months and come back stronger in the spring.
One of the first things to consider is when to move your plants inside. Once nighttime temperatures consistently drop below 7°C, it's a sign that your tender annuals need to find shelter. This is especially important for plants that aren’t hardy enough to withstand frost. Moving them before the first freeze ensures they have time to adjust to their new indoor environment.
Before bringing any plant inside, it’s crucial to check for pests. Outdoor plants can carry insects or diseases that could quickly spread indoors. Give them a thorough rinse with water and use insecticidal soap if needed. If you're moving a plant from the ground, make sure to pot it in a container with drainage holes and use proper potting soil—avoid garden soil, which can hold too much moisture and harbor pests.
Once inside, acclimation is key. Place the plant in a shady spot outdoors for a few days before moving it indoors. This helps reduce shock and increases the chances of success. You can also trim back some of the foliage to help the plant adjust and encourage new growth suited for indoor conditions.
Indoor plants require different care than those outside. Humidity is essential, so mist your plants a couple of times a week. Watch for signs of dryness, like curled or browned leaf tips, but don’t worry—some leaf loss is normal during the transition. Watering should be done sparingly, only when the top inch or two of soil is dry. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which is a common issue in winter.
Fertilizing isn't necessary during the colder months. Wait until the final month before moving your plants back outside, then feed them with a diluted organic fertilizer once a week. This will help them regain strength for the growing season ahead.
If you have an herb garden, many of these herbs can thrive indoors during the winter. Herbs like thyme, oregano, and chives are perfect for adding fresh flavor to your meals. For those who missed planting in the summer, products like the Cole & Mason Self Watering Herb Keeper make it easy to grow fresh herbs year-round. Pair it with a good pair of herb scissors, like the Berghoff Studio Multi-Blade Scissors, and you’ll always have fresh ingredients on hand.
When spring arrives and temperatures stay above 15°C at night, it’s time to move your plants back outside. Start by placing them in a shaded area and gradually introduce them to more sunlight over the next few weeks. This slow transition helps prevent sunburn and ensures a smooth return to their outdoor home.
With a bit of planning and care, your plants can enjoy a comfortable winter vacation and come back stronger in the spring. Whether you're moving them indoors or keeping them in containers, following these tips will help you keep your green friends healthy all year round.