Chill Out, They’ll Survive!
Every plant is different, kind of like people. To help your plants stay healthy in winter, you need to know what they like and don’t like.
Here are some plants that like the sun and need extra care during winter:
CACTI AND SUCCULENTS 🌵
For cacti and succulents, such as Aloe Vera, Jade Plants, and Echeveria, winter can be tough for them with less light and colder temperatures. Try placing them near a bright window or using a grow light to help them. Remember not to overwater them in winter since they need less water.
CITRUS TREES (Indoor Varieties) 🍋🌳
In winter, their growth may slow down due to less light. Use supplemental lighting if they’re not getting enough sunlight. Keep them away from cold drafts, too.
HIBISCUS 🌺
A plant with stunning flowers, hibiscus needs lots of sunlight to thrive. Without enough light, they may drop leaves or stop blooming in winter. Place them in a sunny window and ensure the soil stays moist but not soggy.
CROTON 🌈🌿
This plant has vivid, variegated leaves that need bright light to stay vibrant. In winter, reduced light can make the leaves lose their vivid hues. Rotate them regularly to ensure that they receive an even amount of light. Place them near a south-facing window.
GERANIUMS (Pelargoniums) 🌸
Geraniums can struggle indoors during winter. Without enough light, they might get leggy or stop blooming. Consider supplemental lighting if you need to, and keep them in a sunny window.
☀️ For these sun-loving plants to survive the winter, maximize their exposure to natural light, use grow lights, and adjust your watering and care routine to accommodate the reduced light levels.
♨️ Your plants don’t want to turn into icicles, but they also don’t want to be as warm as your morning toast. Keep them away from drafts and toasty heaters.
💧 Watering plants in winter is like walking a tightrope. Too much, and you’ll need a lifeboat. Too little? Let’s not even go there. Let the soil breathe before the next water rendezvous. And use lukewarm water – cold water is a no-no!
🌬 Indoor heating is like that friend who means well but ends up drying everything out. Counter this by giving your plants a spa day with some extra humidity. Group them together, get a humidifier, or just place a tray of water nearby. Spa music optional.
🙅 Winter is not the time for plant makeovers. No repotting, no heavy-duty fertilizing. Let them chill in their current homes. We can talk about makeovers and plant food when the sun’s back in full swing.
✂️ Got some yellow and sad leaves? It’s snip-snip time. Pruning helps your plant save its much-needed energy. It’s like cutting off a bad relationship – only good vibes for your plant, please!
🦟 Even in winter, pests are like annoying paparazzi. Keep an eye out for these small critters and show them the door if they crash your plant party.
🐌 Plants in winter are like us – they move slower and are lazier. Be patient, keep an eye on them, and adjust your care routine as you go. They’ll be fine.
Winter doesn’t have to be a ‘Game of Thrones’-style survival battle for your green buddies. Just a few tweaks here and there, and your plant family will be thriving and ready to hit the ground running when spring comes around.
Stay chill, have fun, and remember – talking to your plants is totally normal (at least, that’s what I tell myself). 😄
