Bring potted plants inside for the winter

Not all plants can handle the cold temperatures during the winter months. This is particularly the case when it comes to potted plants. When plants are set in pots, the pot is not buried in the ground. Which means that the soil in the pot is that much more exposed to the freezing temperatures. This affects the health of the plant and can cause them to perish in a hurry. For this reason, many people choose to bring their plants in during the winter. Here are some tips to keep in mind before bringing your plants indoors.

Removing bugs

Whether your potted plants are inside or in your garden, they will always attract bugs. However, they tend to become a bit more covered in insects like mealybugs, aphids and spider mites when they are outdoors. The best thing to do is to inspect your plant closely before you bring it inside. Check for bugs, eggs and give them a good cleaning before you make the move. You should inspect the soil too, while you’re at it.

Pruning

Different plants benefit from different pruning routines. Make sure that you understand when and how to prune your potted plants before you begin. Pruning while outside makes for an easy clean up. Proper pruning of your plant will help it grow and stay healthy.

Repotting

If you notice that your potted plant has or is about to outgrow its pot, this is the time to repot. Make sure that you have a larger pot as well as suitable potting mix on hand. You should repot a few weeks before bringing the plant indoors. If you do both at the same time, it can prove to be too much of a shock for the plant.

Select the right spot

When you bring your plant inside, make sure that you select their winter home with care. Potted plants that love light should be placed near windows. Remember that many potted plants need ventilation too. So, place them in a place where there is regular airflow. It need not be windy, but air circulation is essential.

Gradual temperature adjustments

A gradual adjustment in the temperature is very important if you don’t want to give your potted plants a sweltering surprise. Just imagine how you feel when you come inside on a cold day and your home is far too warm. It can even make you feel quite ill. The same goes for your plant. You can start by placing them in a cooler room in your home before gradually moving them to another, warmer spot where they will spend the remaining weeks of winter.

Watering schedule

Since it is winter, you can expect the rate of evaporation to slow down significantly. This means that you do not have to water your potted plants nearly as often. Take note of the condition of the soil. Once it starts to dry out, this is when you can water them again.

Remember, these tips are great for potted plants that can be moved inside during the winter. There are, however, some plants that you will not be able to move. This is mainly due to their size and the amount of space that you have in your home. If you are worried about these plants, there are a number of ways to protect them from the elements. You can also look for plants that are known for their ability to survive the winter and flourish again in the spring.