Autumn marks the end of the warm season, the end of the active growing season for plants, and if the climate changes can affect you, imagine what they can do to your indoor plants. Making small adjustments to your plant care is essential to help them gradually adapt to the seasonal change and prevent serious damage.
1. Reduce the frequency of watering
Plants grow less during the colder months, and some may even go dormant. At this time of year, evaporation is also slower, and they end up needing less water. It's best to always check that the soil is completely dry before watering and never leave the plant soaked. Click here to learn more about irrigation!
2. Move plants to brighter locations
In autumn, the days begin to get shorter and it gets dark earlier. The angle of sunlight changes, but plants still need light! Although their growth slows, it's important to have a room with a few hours of natural light per day. If your plants are in a location with little natural light, we recommend moving them to a brighter location.
Another tip is to remove dead branches, leaves, and flowers . This keeps the plant healthier and allows more light to reach the lower leaves. Click here to learn more about the importance of light for plants!
3. Bring sensitive plants indoors
Some houseplants adapt perfectly to the outdoors during the summer. However, it's time to bring them back indoors . Low temperatures can burn the leaves, and overwatering can rot the roots. It's important to do this immediately to prevent the plants from withstanding temperatures below 10°C. Equally important is checking for pests that may have attacked the plant while it was outside.
4. Watch out for insects!
Autumn is breeding season for many insects. Therefore, we recommend that you keep an eye out for pests. If identified and treated quickly, they won't cause major damage to your plants. If left unidentified and untreated, they can cause irreversible damage to your plants.
5. Keep plants away from drafts and heat sources
Indoor plants don't like sudden changes in temperature . Therefore, we recommend keeping them away from temperature-regulating appliances like heaters, air conditioners, or fireplaces, as well as from very hot or very cold areas.
6. Reduces the frequency of fertilizer use
During the colder months, plants grow at a slower rate . This means their nutritional needs decrease. During these months, it's recommended to reduce fertilizer use and only increase the frequency again in early spring, the start of the plant's active growing season. Click here to learn more about fertilization!
7. Gently turn the substrate
Reduced natural light and increased humidity levels create the perfect conditions for fungi to grow on the surface of the soil of indoor plants. Some fungi may be beneficial to the plants, but others can cause root rot . By turning the substrate, you can prevent the growth of fungi and root rot.
Count on us to help you care for your plants this season. Talk to us!
