How to Overwinter Potted Plants

When the temperatures start to drop and the leaves begin to fall, it can be easy to forget about your potted plants. However, neglecting your plants during the winter months can be a death sentence for your beloved greenery. With these tips, you can help your potted plants survive the chilly winter months and thrive come springtime.

Choose the Right Container

When you're looking to overwinter potted plants, it's important to choose the right container. Make sure the pot is made of a material that won't crack or break when the temperature drops. Terracotta pots are notorious for cracking in the cold, so consider using a plastic or fiberglass pot instead. Additionally, make sure the pot has drainage holes to prevent water from building up and freezing in the soil.

Find the Right Location

Choosing the right location to overwinter your plants is crucial. Find a spot that receives plenty of light, but isn't too drafty or chilly. If possible, keep your plants away from windows and doors that let in cold air. A garage or basement can be a great location as long as the temperature doesn't drop too much.

Protect from the Cold

Even inside, plants can still be affected by the cold. To protect them, you may need to take some extra steps. Covering the pots with bubble wrap or burlap can help insulate the roots and soil. You can also place the pots on top of an insulated mat or piece of foam to help protect them from the cold floor.

Water Wisely

It's important to continue watering your plants throughout the winter, but be careful not to overwater. Check the soil regularly and only water when the top inch feels dry. Additionally, make sure the water isn't too cold. Using room-temperature water can help prevent shock to the roots.

Add Humidity

During the winter, the air inside our homes can become dry and arid. This can be especially problematic for plants, which need a certain amount of humidity to thrive. Adding a humidifier or placing a tray of water near the plants can help add some much-needed moisture to the air.

Prune and Fertilize

During the winter, your plants may not be growing as quickly as they do in the summer months. However, that doesn't mean you should neglect them. Pruning any dead or damaged branches can help promote healthy growth come springtime. Additionally, fertilizing your plants every few weeks can help give them the nutrients they need to survive the winter.

Conclusion

Overwintering potted plants requires some extra care and attention, but it's worth it to ensure your greenery comes back to life in the spring. By choosing the right container, finding the right location, protecting from the cold, watering wisely, adding humidity, and pruning and fertilizing regularly, your plants will be well-equipped to survive the winter months.