How to keep your plants happy and healthy this winter

Winters in Canada can be cold and dark, and just like us, our delicate plants – indoor and outdoor plants alike – need some special attention this time of year. So, show your plants a little TLC this winter by giving them a warm, dry place to wait out the cold weather until spring. 

Follow this list of helpful tips to keep your plants happy and healthy through the winter months.

• Keep it bright. Expose your plants to as much sunlight as possible by keeping them by a window. Remember, days are shorter in winter so they need all the natural light they can get. If you see your plants struggling, you may need to move them to maximize exposure.
• Keep them warm. Avoid cold and drafty areas of the house where your plants risk getting frostbite. If it gets too cold overnight, you may need to move your plants away from the window.
• Avoid extreme heat. If placed near a heater or a fireplace, your plants can dry out. It’s best to keep them in a room where the temperature doesn’t fluctuate too much. If necessary, run a humidifier to add moisture back into the air. 
• Cut down on water. Most plants require less hydration in the winter as they enter a hibernation period. The same rule applies for fertilization – feel free to skip the fertilizer for healthy plants, or dilute with water for those that need a little extra help. 
• Avoid the urge to repot your plants. They will not be growing much during the winter months, and it’s best to keep them in a stable environment until spring.
• Clean and prune. Gently wipe down the leaves and trim them back before bringing outdoor plants in for the season.