Preparing Your Houseplants for a Cozy Fall: A Green Thumb's Guide
As summer's warm days gradually fade, it's time for us plant lovers to prepare our beloved houseplants for the upcoming fall season. Just like us, our leafy friends need some TLC and adjustments to thrive during the autumn months. In this blog, we'll delve into essential tips and tricks to help your houseplants transition smoothly into fall and continue to flourish throughout the season.
Step 1: Assess Your Urban Jungle
Before you begin any preparations, take a moment to evaluate the health and condition of your houseplants. Look for signs of overgrowth, pest infestations, or any other issues that may have cropped up during the summer. Addressing these concerns now will set the stage for a successful transition.
Step 2: Adjust Watering Schedule
Fall often brings cooler temperatures and reduced humidity, which means your plants won't need as much water. Start by gradually decreasing the frequency of watering and pay attention to your plants' needs. Always water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Using a moisture meter will make it easier to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Do you still have questions about watering? Read our How Often Should I Water my Houseplants Blog.
Step 3: Monitor Light Exposure
As the days get shorter, your plants may receive less sunlight. Make sure your houseplants are still getting the right amount of light they need. Rotate them periodically to ensure even growth, and consider moving them closer to windows to maximize their access to natural light. Learn more about the right light for your plants here.
Step 4: Fertilize Mindfully
Fall typically means slower growth for houseplants. Adjust your fertilization schedule to once a month or less, using Good Dirt Plant Food. Avoid overfeeding, as it can stress your plants.
Step 5: Repot Wisely
Fall can be a good time to repot houseplants that have outgrown their containers. Choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one, as you don't want your plant to expend too much energy on root growth during the fall. Here are the 6 signs you can’t ignore.
Step 6: Embrace the Plant Protector
Pest prevention and treatment are essential aspects of fall plant care. Our secret weapon for safeguarding your plants is the Plant Protector. This natural pesticide serves as both a pest-preventative and a treatment. This handmade, non-toxic formula creates a protective barrier around your plants, deterring and eliminating common pests like spider mites, mealy bugs, thrips, and aphids.
Step 7: Maintain Humidity
Indoor heating during the fall can lead to lower humidity levels, which can stress some houseplants. Combat this by misting your plants, using a humidity tray, or placing a small humidifier in the room.
Step 8: Trim and Prune
Trim leggy growth and remove dead or yellowing leaves. Pruning will not only keep your plant looking tidy but also encourage healthier growth.
Step 9: Observe and Adapt
Lastly, remember that each houseplant is unique, and their needs may vary. Regularly observe your plants and adapt your care routine as necessary. Sometimes, it's as simple as giving a struggling plant a little extra attention.
Are you a little overwhelmed? Our houseplant services are the solution!
For those who desire professional assistance in preparing their houseplants for fall, our houseplant services are here to help. Our skilled expert will assess your urban jungle, tailor care routines to your plant's unique needs, and even apply the Plant Protector for you. With our expertise, your houseplants will thrive in the autumn months and beyond. Learn more about our services here.