Winter’s cold weather can cause potted plants to turn yellow and drop their leaves, especially during severe cold spells and frost. The harsh winter weather will kill the plants if they are not well cared for. So, keep in mind these tips:
Don’t change the soil or disturb the roots during cold weather.
The roots, nestled in the soil, stay warm during winter. Disturbing them by repotting or digging near the roots will expose them to the cold and likely kill the plant.
In winter, plants enter a dormant state and cease active growth. If you disturb the roots or repot the plant, the roots may break, making it difficult for the plant to recover and leading to leaf yellowing and drop due to weakness.
Bring your plants indoors and provide warmth.
Potted plants are more delicate than wild plants and may not withstand outdoor winter conditions. Move them inside, and if it gets too cold, provide additional warmth, but avoid placing them too close to heaters or radiators as this can dry out the plants. Artificial heat sources don’t provide the same benefits as natural sunlight, so avoid excessive temperatures and keep the roots away from direct heat.
Be cautious when watering to prevent freezing.
In winter, incorrect watering can further expose plants to the cold, especially if it’s rainy and wet. Pay attention to the amount of water you give your plants during this season, ensuring you don’t overwater or let them completely dry out. Consider the dryness of the soil and the humidity in the air when watering. Additionally, adjust your watering schedule; water in the morning, around 9 am, or in the afternoon, between 3-4 pm, to avoid shocking the plants with cold water. Generally, plants consume less water in winter, and if the soil remains dry for too long, the roots may suffocate, leading to leaf yellowing.
If your plant is budding or flowering, water it generously and frequently rather than with a single heavy watering. For dormant plants without flowers or leaves, reduce watering to prevent root rot from excessive moisture.
Be careful with fertilizer application.
Reduce fertilizer application in winter, especially chemical fertilizers high in nitrogen, as they can burn the plants. Plants are dormant and require less energy during this period, so excessive fertilizer can overload them. However, if you have plants with buds about to flower, you may need to continue fertilizing, but reduce the amount compared to spring and summer.
Provide more sunlight to boost your plants’ vitality.
Winter often brings shorter days and less sunlight, which can weaken your plants. Ensure you move them outdoors to soak up some sun. Sunlight will help keep them warm, but avoid doing so before the morning dew has evaporated, as this can cause leaf scorch and yellowing due to frost damage. When you keep your plants indoors during winter, it’s even more critical to provide them with sufficient sunlight. A lack of sunlight during this period can lead to leaf yellowing and plant death.
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