How to Care for Your Houseplants as Fall Approaches
As summer fades and the crisp air of fall settles in, it’s time to adjust your care routine for houseplants. The changing season brings shorter days, cooler temperatures, and drier air—conditions that require a shift in how we care for our leafy companions. Here are some essential tips to help your plants thrive as we move into autumn:
1. Adjust Watering Habits
With the reduced sunlight in fall, your plants won’t grow as vigorously as they did in summer. This means they’ll need less water. Overwatering is a common problem in the cooler months, as the soil takes longer to dry out. Check the top inch of soil before watering—if it's still moist, hold off. Remember, it's easier to revive a thirsty plant than one that's been waterlogged.
2. Monitor Indoor Temperature
Though fall temperatures outside may be dropping, your indoor environment should remain fairly stable. Most houseplants prefer temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C), so avoid placing them near drafty windows, radiators, or heaters. Sudden temperature changes can stress your plants, causing yellowing leaves or stunted growth.
3. Reduce Fertilizing
As fall approaches, plants enter a slower growth phase, so they won’t need as many nutrients. Scale back on fertilizing or stop entirely during the fall and winter months. Too much fertilizer can lead to a buildup of salts in the soil, which can harm the roots.
4. Maximize Light Exposure
The shorter days mean your plants will receive less natural light. Move them closer to windows to make the most of the available sunlight, but be mindful of cold drafts. If your home doesn’t get much light in the fall, consider using grow lights to supplement. Rotating your plants every couple of weeks ensures that all sides receive equal exposure.
5. Maintain Humidity Levels
Indoor air tends to get drier in the fall, especially once the heating systems kick in. Many houseplants, especially tropical varieties, thrive in humid environments. You can boost humidity by misting your plants regularly, placing them on pebble trays filled with water, or using a humidifier. Grouping plants together can also create a micro-humid environment.
6. Prune and Clean
Fall is a great time to tidy up your plants. Remove any dead or yellowing leaves, and prune leggy growth. Not only will this help your plants look their best, but it also promotes healthier growth. Also, dust the leaves to ensure they can absorb as much light as possible—dust buildup can block sunlight and affect photosynthesis.
7. Check for Pests
As we transition into fall, pests can become an issue, especially if your plants were outdoors during the summer. Examine your plants closely for signs of infestation like small webs, discolored leaves, or sticky residue. Common indoor pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids may thrive in the warmer indoor environment. If you notice any, treat them promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
By making these small adjustments to your routine, you’ll help your houseplants not only survive the seasonal shift but thrive during the colder months. Fall is a time for rest and restoration, both for your plants and yourself—so embrace the change and enjoy your indoor jungle year-round!
Now that you've learned how to care for your plants in the fall and winter months, why not add one of our plants to your collection, like this Ficus Elastica