As winter officially settles in and we begin to see temperatures drop across South East Queensland, mornings start looking a little more frosty and our beds evermore cosy. With a small amount of guilt trickling up from our stomachs, we turn our attention naturally to our beloved outdoor plants (and spoilt indoor plants) enduring in the cold.
The cold season presents unique challenges but also offers opportunities to strengthen our connection with nature, to learn, and grow our plant care skills to help our leafy friends thrive despite the chilly weather. Here are some essential tips to guide you through winter plant care:
Understand Your Plants’ Needs
Without diving into specific care routines for every plant species in one article, it’s crucial to understand that different plant species have differing care needs. Some species are more sensitive to cold temperatures, while others might thrive in cooler conditions. Doing a bit of research on the plants in your garden or home is not only great for getting familiar with your plant babies but can shed light on the specific requirements of each plant and help you tailor your care approach accordingly.
Knowing which plants are sensitive to cold weather (or frost tender) can help better direct your energy and tender, loving care. Below are a few common plants sensitive to cold weather:
- Agapanthus
- Alocasia
- Bay
- Camellia
- Cannas
- Dahlia
- Fuchsias
- Geraniums
- Gladioli
- Magnolia
- Orchids
- Photinia
- Potatoes
- Pothos
- Succulents
- Tomatoes
- Tropicals
- Tuberous Begonia
Monitor Light Conditions
With shorter days and weaker sunlight during winter, it’s essential to monitor your plants’ exposure to light. Place them near north-facing windows here in South East Queensland (south-facing generally if you are in the northern hemisphere) where they can receive maximum sunlight throughout the day. Consider using grow lights for indoor plants to supplement natural light if necessary.
Adjust Watering Schedules
During winter, many plants enter a dormant phase where their growth slows down. This means they require less water compared to warmer months. Thus, it becomes more crucial than ever to check the soil moisture before watering and adjust frequency accordingly. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so it’s better to err on the side of underwatering during this season.
If possible, refrain from watering late in the evening, close to dusk, when temperatures are beginning to drop.
Maintain Humidity Levels
In Australia, winter tends to be our dryer months, additionally indoor heating systems and fireplaces can significantly reduce humidity levels in the air. This can be detrimental to tropical and many indoor plants that thrive in moist environments. To combat dry air, place a humidifier near your plants or use humidity trays filled with water and pebbles. Do not allow plants to stand in the water as this can lead soggy soil and root rot.
Misting the leaves occasionally can also help maintain adequate moisture levels.
Protect Outdoor Plants
For outdoor plants, especially those in containers, consider bringing them indoors, if possible, or placing them in a sheltered area to protect them from freezing temperatures, frost, and harsh winds.
Potted plants are often more protected from the cold than those in the ground, however, cold sensitive plants can be given a helping hand with frost blankets or by wrapping the pots in thick free draining material.
Mulch such as sugarcane or hay can be a great way to insulate sensitive in-ground plants and prevent cold damage.
Whereas shade cloth can protect from harsh cold winds.
Prune and Clean
As mentioned in our “Autumn in the Garden” article, the cooler months are an excellent time for cleaning up, pruning and preparing your garden and its plants for Spring. Dormant plants can be pruned, with dead or diseased branches removed and any yellowing leaves to promote healthy growth once spring arrives. Indoor plant foliage can benefit from being cleaned with a damp cloth to remove dust and allow better light absorption.
Avoid Drafts and Temperature Fluctuations
Like many of us, plants are sensitive to sudden temperature changes and drafts. We all fair better with gradual temperature changes, so avoid placing plants them near heaters, vents, or drafty windows and doors. Try to maintain a consistent natural temperature range to help them acclimate gradually to winter conditions.
Monitor for Pests and Diseases
Despite the cold, pests and diseases can still affect plants indoors and outdoors during winter, if not breed more rapidly. Inspecting your plants regularly for signs of pests such as spider mites, mealybug or fungal infections in particular, can help you spot issues early before they get out of control and cause too much damage.
Neem or White Oil can be a great treatment for most pest issue, whereas a eco-fungicide can help treat mild fungal problems that aren’t watering related such as powdery mildew and black spot. A diluted milk solution is also a great natural solution for powdery mildew. Read the recipe from Better Homes and Gardens here.
Provide Nutrients Sparingly
Since plants’ growth slows down in winter, they require less food and fertilisers. Avoid fertilising dormant plants or reduce the frequency to once every few months. Use a balanced, diluted fertiliser suitable for the plant species to provide essential nutrients without overwhelming them.
Plan for Spring
Lastly, use the winter months to plan ahead for spring. Research new plants you might want to add to your collection, order seed, prepare pots and soil for transplanting, and consider any changes or improvements to your garden layout.
By following these winter plant care tips, you can assist your plants not only survive but thrive during the winter months. Remember, caring for plants is a continuous learning process, and each season offers new insights into nurturing your green companions. Embrace the slower pace of winter gardening and enjoy the beauty and tranquility that indoor and outdoor plants bring to your home.
Winter may be cold, but with the right care, your plants can stay warm and healthy throughout the season. Happy gardening!