Winter can be a challenging season for plant lovers, especially when temperatures drop and sunlight fades. Whether you're new to plant care or a seasoned plant parent, it’s natural to have questions about keeping your plants healthy through the colder months. In this FAQ, we’ll cover everything you need to know about winterizing plants—from bringing them indoors to managing low light, and protecting your outdoor plants from frost. Let’s dive into your top questions to make sure your plants thrive all winter long!
Q: When should I put my outdoor plants back inside?
A: Bringing outdoor plants indoors for winter depends on your local climate, but a good rule of thumb is to start preparing when temperatures consistently drop below 50°F (10°C). For most plants, bringing them in becomes essential when nighttime temperatures fall below 40°F (4°C) for more than a few days. If you're dealing with one cold night, simply put a blanket over your plants. The blanket acts as an insulator, trapping heat from the soil to keep the plants warmer. I recommend covering your plants before sunset as it helps trap warmth from the soil that accumulates during the day. I would also like to suggest that you start preparing for this transition by choosing a spot indoors with good airflow and as much light as possible—ideally near a window (place them at least a few inches away, do not let foliage touch chilly windows!). If natural light is limited, consider using a grow light to maintain their light needs. We’ll discuss that soon.
Q: How should I treat my outdoor plants for pests before bringing them inside?
A: Your plants will most likely have a few hitchhikers. Treating your plants for pests before bringing them indoors is key to preventing infestations. Here are some tips:
- Inspect Your Plants: Carefully examine the leaves (top and underside), stems, and soil surface for any visible signs of pests like aphids and spider mites. Even tiny webs or sticky residue can signal a pest problem.
- Rinse the Plants: Give your plants a thorough rinse with a hose to knock off any loose pests. Focus especially on the underside of leaves where pests tend to hide. For smaller plants, you can submerge the foliage in a bucket of water for a few minutes to help dislodge insects.
- Treat the Soil (if needed): If you suspect any pests in the soil, consider using a gentle soil drench with an insecticidal soap solution. Alternatively, sprinkle a thin layer of diatomaceous earth over the soil surface; this natural substance is safe for plants but can help deter pests in the soil. Systemic granules would also be a great idea.
- Treat your plants: Spray the plant with an insecticidal soap (I recommend Captain Jack’s Insecticidal Super Soap). This is particularly effective against thrips and aphids. Treat your plants again with another insecticide (like azadirachtin, which will be effective against spider mites) after 10 days.
- Quarantine Indoors: When you first bring the plants inside, keep them separate from your other plants for a week or two to watch for any pests that may have been missed. This "quarantine" period minimizes the risk of spreading pests to your other indoor plants.
Q: Will my watering and fertilizing schedule stay the same?
A: No, your schedule will usually need to change unless your indoor environment remains consistently the same year-round in terms of temperature, humidity, and lighting. In winter, plants generally need less water and little to no fertilizer due to reduced light and slower growth. Your watering and fertilizing routine will likely need to change in the winter. Most plants enter a semi-dormant state during colder months due to reduced sunlight and cooler temperatures, meaning they don’t need as much water or nutrients. Here are some adjustments to consider:
- Watering: Indoor plants require less water in winter. Allow the top inch or so of soil to dry out before watering again, as overwatering can lead to root rot in cooler, low-light conditions.
- Fertilizing: If you’d like to fertilize during the winter, it’s best to do so with caution and in moderation, as plants have reduced nutrient needs during this time. Use a much weaker solution than you would in the growing season, ideally half of the recommended strength. This provides a small nutrient boost without overwhelming the plant. If this is your first winter, I recommend only fertilizing plants that are still actively growing or flowering. Some indoor plants, like certain tropicals or flowering plants, may show new growth and can benefit from light feeding.
- Humidity: Indoor air is often drier in winter, so consider increasing humidity around your plants. You can use a humidifier or place plants on a tray filled with pebbles and water to help them adjust.
Q: What are the most common pests to look out for in the winter?
A: Spider mites—and really, all types of mites—are common winter pests that thrive in dry indoor air. They feed on plant sap, often leaving tiny yellow or brown spots on leaves and producing fine webbing. However, it’s important to stay mindful of other pests as well, like aphids, mealybugs, and scale, and to keep up with regular pest inspections and treatments to protect your plants throughout the season.
Q: Will I need to add grow lights to my collection?
A: Most likely, yes. During winter, shorter days and lower light levels can make it challenging for plants to get enough sunlight, especially if they’re in a dim room or far from windows. Grow lights can help provide the additional light they need to stay healthy and prevent leggy growth. Consider full-spectrum LED grow lights, which mimic natural sunlight and are energy-efficient. Even just a few hours of supplemental light each day can make a big difference in keeping your plants thriving through winter! I highly recommend the SANSI brand on Amazon, and of course, Barrina T5s and T8s.
Winterizing your plants may seem like a lot of work, but with a few simple adjustments, you can help them thrive through the colder months. By monitoring temperature, light, and humidity, and staying on top of watering and pest control, you’ll ensure your plants are well-prepared for winter and ready to flourish when spring arrives!