How do you keep container plants alive through the winter? Indoors or outdoors?
For potted plants, the best approach depends on the plant type and your climate. If your plants are hardy, you can leave them outside, but make sure to insulate the pots with materials like bubble wrap or burlap to protect the roots from freezing. For tender plants, it’s best to bring them indoors to a cool, bright spot, ideally near a window. Make sure to check for pests before bringing them inside and reduce watering since they will be in a dormant state.
If you’re overwintering potted plants outdoors, consider grouping them together to create a microclimate that retains heat. You can also elevate the pots off cold surfaces using pot feet or bricks to prevent root rot. For indoor plants, using a humidity tray can help maintain moisture levels, especially in dry winter air. Remember to provide adequate light, as many plants can suffer from low light conditions during this season.
In addition to what’s been mentioned, it’s a good idea to monitor the temperature of indoor spaces where your plants are kept. Many tropical plants thrive in temperatures above 60 degrees Fahrenheit, so keep them away from drafts and heating vents. If you’re moving plants indoors, gradually acclimate them to the lower light conditions by keeping them in a shaded area before transitioning them fully indoors. For outdoor potted plants, consider adding a mulch layer on top of the soil to help retain moisture and provide additional insulation against the cold.
When overwintering potted plants, it’s also important to adjust your fertilization schedule. Most plants go dormant and won’t need fertilizer during the winter months, so hold off on feeding them until spring when they start to actively grow again. Additionally, if you’re concerned about moisture levels in your indoor space, you might want to mist the leaves occasionally or use a pebble tray to increase humidity without overwatering the soil. This can be especially beneficial for tropical plants that prefer higher humidity during the winter.