5 expert tips on how to care for houseplants in winter

With the onset of winter, houseplants require more careful attention. It is believed that in the cold months, when there is little sunlight, certain destructive changes occur in their "life" and this should be taken into account.

News Bytes writes: "In order to stop the destructive processes and not to ruin your favorite flower, you should change the regimen of its care. Here are some useful tips on how to do this."

Reduce the amount of watering

Do not water plants too often in winter, otherwise they will die. Unlike in summer, when flowers need more moisture, water does not evaporate as quickly in winter, and its excessive amount can lead to the appearance of various fungal diseases and root rot.

Tip: Water your plants in winter if the soil in the pots is 4-5 cm dry.

Provide additional lighting

Plants need at least six hours of direct or indirect sunlight every day, so place them where they can get the most of it.

Pay attention to the direction in which the flower is growing and rotate the pot regularly so that light hits all sides. This ensures that the plant grows evenly. You can also use special lamps and lamps as an additional light source.

Avoid fertilizers

Fertilizers provide additional nutrients, but since plants develop more slowly in winter, there is no great need for them. They may not even develop new leaves and stems during the winter season.

Tip: It is better to give the flower a break, or reduce the dose of its fertilization by 50-70%.

Keep an eye out for pests

Winter is not a hindrance to the reproduction of pests. Therefore, every time you water the plant, turn the leaves over and inspect their undersides and stems.

If you find traces of insect activity, wipe the area with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. Neem oil and insecticidal soap are also good for killing them.

A small amount of fallen leaves is normal

In the fall and winter, houseplants shed some of their leaves to replenish the loss of light and nutrients. So don't panic if you see something like this, it's a natural seasonal process.

Tip: Don't be afraid to remove old leaves from an adult plant, it helps keep its living foliage green and thick.