As summer gives way to fall, you may notice some changes in your houseplants. The shift in seasons brings cooler temperatures, shorter days, and different humidity levels, all of which can affect your houseplants. While some plants might thrive during this transition, others may need a bit of extra care. Here’s a guide to help you ensure your plants continue to thrive as the season changes from summer to fall.
1. Adjusting Light Exposure
With the arrival of fall, the days become shorter, and the intensity of sunlight decreases. This reduction in light can be challenging for many houseplants, especially those that thrive in bright, indirect light.
What to do:
- Move your plants closer to windows: To compensate for the reduced sunlight, consider moving your plants closer to windows or areas that receive more natural light. South-facing windows are ideal for plants that need bright light, while east or west-facing windows can be good for those that prefer moderate light.
- Rotate your plants: Ensure that all sides of your plants receive light by rotating them regularly. This prevents them from leaning towards the light source and promotes even growth.
- Consider supplemental lighting: If your home doesn’t receive enough natural light, you might want to invest in grow lights. These can provide the necessary light spectrum that plants need during the shorter days of fall and winter.
2. Adjusting Watering Habits
As temperatures drop, the growth rate of most houseplants slows down, meaning they require less water than they did during the summer months. Overwatering during this period can lead to root rot, one of the most common issues houseplants face during seasonal transitions.
What to do:
- Monitor soil moisture: Before watering, check the soil moisture with a moisture meter. A moisture meter will tell you the moisture levels down at the roots of the plant so you can avoid overwatering!
- Reduce frequency: You’ll likely need to water less often in the fall. Pay attention to how quickly the soil dries out and adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
- Avoid cold water: Use room-temperature water for your plants, as cold water can shock their roots, especially when the ambient temperature is cooler.
3. Managing Humidity Levels
Indoor humidity levels often drop as the air cools and heating systems kick in, which can create a dry environment for your plants. Many tropical houseplants, in particular, can suffer in low-humidity conditions.
What to do:
- Group plants together: Clustering your plants together can create a microenvironment that retains moisture and increases humidity levels around them.
- Use a humidifier: If you have several humidity-loving plants, consider using a humidifier in the room where they are located. This can help maintain a consistent humidity level, preventing issues like brown leaf tips and edges.
- Misting: Lightly misting your plants can provide them with a temporary humidity boost, though it’s not a substitute for more consistent methods like using a humidifier or pebble trays.
4. Fertilizing with Care
As the growing season winds down, most houseplants enter a period of dormancy or slower growth. This means they require less fertilizer than they do during the spring and summer.
What to do:
- Cut back on fertilizing: Reduce the frequency of fertilizing to once a month or even every other month, depending on the plant. Over-fertilizing during this period can lead to a build-up of salts in the soil, which can harm your plants.
- Use a gentle formula: If you do choose to fertilize, opt for a gentle, balanced fertilizer, such as Plant Food, which is safe for all indoor and outdoor plants. This ensures your plants receive the nutrients they need without overwhelming them.
5. Inspect for Pests
Fall is a time when pests can become more prevalent as they seek warmth indoors. Common houseplant pests include spider mites, aphids, and fungus gnats, all of which can thrive in the warmer indoor environment.
What to do:
- Inspect regularly: Check the leaves, stems, and soil of your plants regularly for any signs of pests. Early detection is key to preventing infestations.
- Isolate new plants: If you bring any new plants into your home, quarantine them for a few weeks to ensure they aren’t carrying pests that could spread to your other plants.
- Use sticky traps: Sticky traps can be an effective way to catch flying pests like fungus gnats. Consider using these nature-themed sticky gnat traps, which blend in with your plant decor while keeping your plants pest-free.
- Prevention is key: Keep your plants clean and healthy with a neem oil spray such as Neem & Gleam. This 3-1 formula cleans, treats, and also prevents common plant issues such as pests, fungus, and bacteria.
6. Repotting and Pruning
Fall is generally not the best time for repotting most plants since their growth slows down, and they might not have the energy to recover from the stress of repotting. However, some light pruning may be beneficial.
What to do:
- Repot only if necessary: If a plant is severely root-bound or showing signs of distress, repotting may be necessary. Otherwise, wait until spring when the plant is actively growing.
- Prune dead or yellowing leaves: Pruning away any dead or yellowing leaves helps the plant conserve energy and maintain a healthy appearance. Be careful not to prune too much, as the plant needs its leaves to photosynthesize and generate energy.
7. Prepare for Winter
Finally, as you care for your plants during the fall, it’s also a good time to prepare them for the upcoming winter months.
What to do:
- Plan ahead: Think about which plants might need extra care during the winter, such as those that require high humidity or more consistent temperatures.
- Check your supplies: Make sure you have the necessary supplies, such as grow lights, humidity trays, or fertilizers, to keep your plants healthy through the colder months.
By following these tips, you can help your plants transition smoothly from summer to fall, ensuring they stay healthy and vibrant as the seasons change. Remember, with a little extra attention, your houseplants can continue to thrive and bring life to your home year-round!
If you liked this blog post, make sure you're following us on social media for more!