Essential Houseplant Care Now Warmer Days Are Here
Houseplants are waking up from their winter slumber and ready to stretch their leaves towards the sunshine. As the weather warms up, our green friends may need a little extra care and attention to thrive during the sunnier months.
It's time to dust off those leaves, top up with water, find the perfect spot for them to bask in the sunlight, consider repotting and propagating, and give them a trim to encourage new growth.
1. Dust Them Off
During the winter months, our houseplants often accumulate dust due to closed windows and doors to keep the heat in. Not only does this make them look messy, but it can also hinder their ability to absorb light for photosynthesis, which is crucial for their growth. If your houseplant has smooth leaves, like a monstera, gently wipe them with a cloth or even give them a refreshing soak in the bath or shower. For hairy-leaved plants, a soft brush or a gentle breeze from a fan or placing them outside on a warm breezy day can do wonders in clearing away the dust and helping them flourish in the upcoming sunnier months.
2. Houseplant Hydration
Next up, let's talk hydration. During the colder months, houseplants generally need less water, and overwatering can result in root rot. But as the days get longer and warmer, it's time to adjust our watering schedule. Grouping plants with similar watering needs together can make it easier to remember when to water them. Remember to always check the specific watering requirements of your plants and avoid letting them sit in standing water to prevent root rot. Giving your plants a drink in the morning or evening, when the sun is less harsh, can be a good strategy during partuclarly hot days. Keeping our plants well-hydrated will ensure they have the energy they need to grow and thrive during the springtime.
3. Relocation?
Now, let's find the perfect spot for our plants to enjoy some sunshine. Most houseplants will benefit from some sunlight, but it's important to know their specific needs before placing them in direct sunlight for extended periods, as it can result in scorched leaves. Some plants prefer full shade, like ferns, while others thrive in full sun. Understanding their sunlight requirements will help us find the ideal spot for them in our homes. If the temperatures rise too much, it's a good idea to provide some shade during the hottest part of the day and keep them shaded in the afternoon.
4. Repot & Propagate
As our plants start to grow and thrive, it's important to check their roots and consider repotting and propagating. If we notice that the roots are circling the edge of the pot, it's a sign that they need more space to grow. Repotting them into a slightly larger pot with fresh soil will give them the room they need to spread their roots and continue growing healthily. It's also a great time to check for any new stems and consider propagating our plants by dividing them into separate pots. Not only does this promote their health, but it's also a fantastic way to expand our indoor jungle and share the plant love with others!
5. Trim & Tidy
Last but not least, let's give our plants a little trim and tidy. Trimming back any dead or yellowing leaves and stems will not only enhance the visual appeal of our indoor plants but also encourage new growth. It's essential to use clean and sharp pruning tools to prevent the spread of diseases among our plants. Regular trimming and tidying up will keep our plants healthy and vibrant, ready to thrive in the springtime spotlight.
Here at Hortology we have everything you need to create amazing plant looks all year round.