As winter nears, people who enjoy houseplants may have to modify their care regimen, especially when it comes to watering. The shift in season results in varying environmental circumstances that have a notable effect on the development and water requirements of plants.
Why Houseplants Require Less Water in Winter Decreased Sunlight and Growth?
During the winter, the days become shorter and darker, which means that indoor plants receive less natural light. According to Leslie F. Halleck, a qualified professional horticulture from Dallas, Texas, and author of “Gardening Under Lights,” the decreased sunlight hinders the progress of photosynthesis and other plant biological processes.
As a result, plants develop more slowly in the colder months, which in turn decreases their need for water.
Indoor Climate Fluctuations:
The indoor setting has a significant impact on the water requirements of a houseplant. Unlike plants that are grown outside and become inactive during the winter, houseplants continue to develop, although at a slower rate.
“Plants may go through a phase known as quiescence, where they have a slower and quieter period,” states Halleck. The temperature and humidity levels indoors greatly affect the amount of water your plants will require.
Regional Variations:
The geographic position of your residence impacts the interior environment and, consequently, your plants. “The lokittyion of your residence, the climate in that area, the local weather conditions, and the type of HVAC system you have all have an impact on the amount of light, temperature, and humidity,” Halleck points out.
This indicates that the watering requirements of your indoor plants can significantly differ based on the exact conditions in your surroundings.
Heating Systems and Air Dryness:
During the winter season, many individuals utilize heating systems to increase the temperature of their residences, which can result in a notable reduction in moisture in the indoor air.
Halleck notes that the arid air has the capacity to retain a greater amount of water vapor, which may result in plants losing moisture more rapidly due to evapotranspiration. Although the reduced light would usually indikittye a decreased requirement for water, the arid air may partially counterbalance this impact.
Window Closeness and Moisture:
The placement of your plants inside your home might also affect how much water they require. “If your plant is placed near a chilly glass window or if you reside in an area with elevated natural humidity, you might have to decrease the amount of water you give it during the winter,” Halleck suggests.
On the other hand, plants in dry, warm areas may need to be watered more often.
Establishing a Moist Microenvironment:
Clustering plants together can provide a heightened level of humidity, which can be advantageous for them during dry winter circumstances indoors. Lisa Madz, a plant specialist at Rosy Soil, recommends this approach to ensure that your plants have sufficient humidity.
When Indoor Plants Might Require Additional Water During the Winter Season
In spite of the traditional guideline of watering less in winter, there are circumstances where plants may require additional water than usual. This may occur if the heating system in your home causes the air to become overly dry. “My indoor plants droop more frequently during winter compared to summer,” states Halleck. She mentions that although air conditioners also eliminate moisture from the air, the lower temperatures decrease plant transpiration.
Tips for Watering Indoor Plants in Winter Observe Each Plant Separately
Each plant has distinct requirements, which might differ depending on the plant variety, its position in your home, and the exact environmental conditions it experiences.
Modify Watering Frequency:
Be attentive to the moisture content of the soil and adapt your watering schedule accordingly. Do not water according to a set schedule; instead, water according to the specific demands of each plant.
Utilize Humidifiers:
In excessively arid indoor settings, employing a humidifier can assist in maintaining a more appropriate environment for your plants.
Be aware of temperature changes: Avoid putting plants near cold drafts or extreme heat sources, as they can impact their moisture requirements.
Check Soil Moisture:
Use your finger or a soil moisture meter to assess the soil before watering. This can help avoid over watering, which is a frequent problem throughout the winter season.
Comprehend Your Plant’s Dormancy Behavior:
Certain plants may enter a partially inactive condition during winter, greatly decreasing their water requirements.
Cluster Plants for Humidity:
As recommended by Madz, clustering plants can aid in raising humidity levels in their vicinity, hence decreasing the necessity for regular watering.
Utilize Room Humidity Trays:
Positioning water trays next to your plants can assist in raising humidity levels, particularly for tropical species that thrive in a more humid setting.
The Bottom Line
By comprehending these aspects and adapting your care routine accordingly, you can guarantee that your houseplants stay healthy and lively during the winter months. Keep in mind, taking care of houseplants in winter involves more than just watering less. It also means adjusting to the specific conditions that each plant experiences at this time of year