I am sure there are no “undead” coming our way. Nevertheless, the frost may just come and take over our plants if we don’t watch out!
Cozy, snuggles and hot coffee are all part of winter for me. The fact that I’ve always been a homebody is just a cherry on top of the cake. Now, cozying with my family gets even more comfortable surrounded by our lovely plants.
They’re all vibrant and verdant, in contrast with the somewhat dreary atmosphere outside. Enjoying their presence allows us to remember to adjust a little on our caring routine.
Let’s check out first what’s in store for us this coming season.
While you might encounter more rain in the North Island, the South Island might be colder and drier. In Porirua and all of Wellington, the weather could range from 7°C to 12°C, from June to August. For the rest of New Zealand, winter temperatures usually range from 1.5°C – 15.5°C.
It is said that plants native to subtropics are in danger with temperatures below 4.44°C and could be killed at 0°C, when frost heaving occurs. While plants native to the tropics could be damaged with temperature below 10°C and could die at 4.44°C. Checking the origin of our plants could avoid any damages and untimely death.
Personally, I find mulching beneficial for my outdoor plants. It preserves moisture and also improves the quality of the soil. When properly done, mulching could protect root vegetables against hard frost (for those areas that experience frost) and cushion roots against soil movements. Still, don’t overdo things since it could cause rotting if plants have too much moisture in the soil. There are different types of mulch for indoor plants as there are for outdoor plants. Taking the time to search and learn the right type for a specific plant would be helpful.
During the winter common problems we encounter for our indoor plants are: too much water or moisture, not the right temperature and not enough sunlight for some plants.
Sometimes we forget that as the weather changes our plants’ needs for the amount of water also changes. Cacti like rhipsalis baccifera and succulents like calico kittens and burro’s tail may need watering two times less often. Still, you need to check and be careful not to dehydrate.
Cold drafts
Cold drafts could be a culprit during these cold months, that’s why we need to move those plants from window sills to warmer areas inside. Or we could use blinds and thick curtains as barriers against cold drafty windows. Others use bubble wrap as an alternative insulation for windows not double glazed.
But as much as cold drafts are damaging, so is too much heat. Cranking up heaters, radiators and fireplaces during the winter is good. However, plants should not be exposed directly to the heat to avoid getting burned. Heaters also tend to dry the air inside a room. When this happens, plants close their stomata to prevent excessive loss of moisture, making it difficult for them to capture carbon dioxide. We know that this is not good for plants. So we need to find the right temperature for them. Some use humidifiers to balance out the dry air from heaters or you could use misters on some plants so they get the moisture they need without overwatering them.
With shorter days and colder temperature, indoor plants don’t get enough ambient light. Make sure that your windows are clear and free of dust so more light could get in. Leaves should also be clean and dust-free to be able to absorb more nutrients and not block the light.
Winter Blues
Some people experience seasonal affective disorder or some call it “winter blues”. We need to address this properly. Do not brush it off as moodiness caused by the change in season and weather. In the same way, we should care for our plants as some go through dormancy during winter. Knowing the benefits of plants beyond the aesthetic could help in improving physical and mental health. Helping remove indoor air toxins decreases the risk of illness. Also, studies show that tending plants could decrease cortisol levels. This could relieve stress and anxiety, thereby restoring a positive mood.
Over-all, plants are just too good for us. Taking extra care of them this coming season will benefit us more. Each plant and variety has different needs and conditions where they thrive. Knowing those will guide us in our daily care for them.
Sure, winter is coming and we are ready!