Autumn can be a testing season for taking care of plants as they struggle to adapt to erratic levels of heat, humidity and sunlight in our homes, so get to know the needs of your indoor potted plants.
Requirements for garden plants and indoor potted plants vary; however, there are some basic rules that will apply to all of your plants to keep them healthy during the autumn season.Watering and humidity in autumn
As the primary cause of deterioration for most potted plants is over-saturation, a good solution is to allow the soil to dry between watering. This aids the penetration of oxygen into the root system of the plant, which is as important for healthy growth as water. Flowers and herbs in plastic plant pots should be watered less frequently than those in clay ones, however, ensure that water can escape and locate the plant pot in a saucer to aid draining. Read the reviews of experienced gardeners for optimising the watering of your particular plant types.
High humidity an adversely affect potted plants, but this can be remedied by increasing ventilation. Plants can dry more quickly in arid environments, which can result in dead leaves and bud drop. Air temperature and dust can also cause your indoor greenery to dry. Keep your plants looking picture perfect by wiping them regularly or, alternatively, give your plants a quick shower.
Let in the sun
Sunlight gives indoor and garden plants the energy they need to form lush foliage and flowers. As daylight decreases in the UK between September and November, your indoor plants may show signs of suffering from lack of energising sunrays. Raising blinds or opening drapes and placing them in a south-facing window will help you to take care of plants indoors.Incandescent bulbs are not ideal for your potted plants for a number of reasons. They use too much energy; produce too much heat, and, if placed too close to your plant pots, could burn foliage or dry out soil out in the plant pot too quickly. Opt for fluorescent tubesas they give off little heat; produce more light per watt and can be placed very close to your plant pots (30 to 45 cm).
Repotting and feeding
Most healthy potted plants eventually outgrow their plant pots, so autumn is a great opportunity for re-potting your plants as this is a time of reduced activity. During this time you can re-visit your planting arrangements for most plants without putting your foliage into shock. Plan ahead to buy the right plant pots for the right price in our online shop at Getpotted.com.Remember not to over-fertilise as indoor potted plants do not require as much fertiliser during the winter months.When transplanting from the one plant pot to another you can add a little fertiliser and, lastly, don’t forget to add water after you have finished re-potting.
