Winter is here! And probably just like you, your plants are not too happy about it. Having 195,000 sf of perennial gardens here at The Battery, we have learned a thing or two about the subject.

As a plant parent myself, I find it especially difficult to care for my green babies during the winter time. Shorter days, drier air and colder temperatures are a recipe for plant disaster.

But no worries, we are here to give you some tips to keep your houseplants happy and looking good.

1.           Less is more
Watering your plants correctly is probably one of the hardest things to figure out. Some need more water than others, some need it more often. It takes practice and observation to learn your plant’s specific needs. During winter however, all houseplants require less water and less fertilizer (if you use any). Cut in half the amount of water and/or frequency you would normally use or just water the plants that are starting to yellow.

2.           Plants need pampering too
Just like you need to cleanse your face to make it look more radiant and glowy, houseplants need to have clean leaves in order to absorb the light better, especially during winter. So, while that sheet-mask is doing its thing, you can pamper your plant too by spraying its leaves and cleaning them gently with a paper towel.
Pro-tip: while doing so, talk to your plants and let them know how much you love them.

3.           Baby it’s cold outside
You wouldn’t dare going out on a winter day without proper attire so why would you do that to your plants? If they are near a window, always make sure it’s closed. You might even have to move the ones that are more sensitive to cold into a different (hopefully well lit) part of your apartment. Also, do your best to keep them away from the heater, they don’t like that either.

4.           Leave them be
One of the big no-no’s during winter is re-potting your plants. Remember, your plants are basically hibernating, saving as much energy as possible to stay alive during the cold months. Re-potting your plant will cause unnecessary stress that can lead to droopy, yellowing leaves. It is best to wait until spring when the roots are ready to grow again.

5.           Just a trim please
Inevitably, some leaves will die and turn brown. The best thing you can do is prune them out. Not only will your plant look healthier, you are also allowing the energy of the plant to be directed where is needed instead of being wasted on a dead leaf.