Autumn plant care: Expert tips for vibrant winter blooms
Healthy and beautiful flowers are a dream for many of us. However, caring for them in the autumn and winter can be quite challenging. You just need to know a few simple rules that will help your plants look dazzling all year round.
8 November 2024 18:22
Autumn is the time when our potted plants may lose their attractive appearance. Leaves turn yellow, flowers wither, and we wonder what went wrong. This phenomenon affects many varieties of flowers. Several factors can affect the poor condition of plants during this period. These include a lack of light, high indoor temperature, and poor air humidity. How can you deal with it?
Take care of your potted plants during the autumn and winter season
Potted plants require special attention and care from early October to the end of February. It's essential to observe primarily the appearance of the leaves, which often reveal the condition of the whole plant. It's worthwhile to adjust cultivation methods to the individual needs of each variety. Avoid the most common care mistakes that affect their health.
As temperatures drop and the air becomes dry, optimal watering is crucial. This activity is essential, but overwatering should be avoided. Before the next watering, check the soil moisture with your finger – if the soil is dry at a depth of about 2.5 centimetres, it's a sign that it's time to water.
Sunlight is equally important. The days are shorter and darker, so moving the plants closer to a window is advisable to provide better access to natural light. Plants need sun rays to promote blooming, and insufficient light causes them to shed leaves and dry out.
We should regulate the surrounding temperature. Remember to keep potted flowers away from heat sources like radiators, stoves, and heaters. Most of them prefer a stable temperature between 18 and 22 degrees Celsius. Avoid draughts! Houseplants particularly dislike sudden gusts of cold air.
It's worth considering matching the pot. A pot that's too tight or of poor quality can adversely affect the growth of some species. Don't forget about fertilisation. Many plants may require gentle nutrient support every few weeks. What should you choose?
Appropriate fertiliser for potted plants
Young potted plants particularly need a set of three elements: phosphorus, calcium, and potassium, which you can find in potato (or corn) starch. This product, available in virtually every store, will help the plants revive and grow, and some will even produce new buds.
How to do it? Simply remove about 1.5 centimetres of soil from the pot with the flower and pour a teaspoon of potato (or corn) starch inside. Mix it thoroughly with the soil and then cover everything with fresh soil. Remember, it's crucial that the soil is fresh – otherwise, mould may appear in the pot after a few days.
