K-State horticulture expert shares tips for maintaining growth during the cold months
Cold temperatures have come to Kansas in bits and spurts this year, but enough so that many gardeners have moved cold-sensitive plants indoors recently.
It begs the question: Now what?
“Hopefully, you were able to transition your plants to the indoors (by gradually introducing them to less light), but if not, they may go through a period of shock,” said Kansas State University horticulture expert Cynthia Domenghini.
Symptoms of shock may include yellowing leaves, dieback and wilt, she said.
“Some plants won’t survive the shock if it’s extreme,” Domenghini said. “Others will recover over time and with proper care.”
Domenghini offers tips for helping plants survive their new indoor environment.
Water and fertilizer
Whether indoors or out, the amount of light decreases from fall to winter, resulting in slower plant growth. “This means the fertilizer and water needs will decrease,” Domenghini said.
She suggests only providing water when the soil is dry about one-inch deep. Fertilizer can be applied at one-fourth the recommended rate in November, then again in February.
“Plants in smaller containers often require water more frequently, but less fertilizer because they have less soil,” Domenghini said. “This varies based on species, so do your homework and research individual plant needs.”
Temperature
If the air temperature drops below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, the leaves of more sensitive plants may begin to yellow. “Keep this in mind if you adjust the thermostat during times when nobody is home, such as vacations,” Domenghini said.
Humidity
When the humidity is lower, plants release more water from the leaves. Many common indoor plants prefer high relative humidity.
“To increase the relative humidity, you can create a micro-climate by grouping plants closer together,” Domenghini said. “Another option is to place a shallow container below each plant and fill it with water. Elevate the container by placing some gravel in the saucer so that the plant isn’t soaking directly in the water.”
Misting plant leaves is recommended by some, but Domenghini says it is not a practical strategy to effectively increase humidity.
Light
Indoor plants should receive bright, indirect light either from a window or grow lights. Avoid placing plants too close to windows that are drafty, or next to heat vents.
Some indicators that plants are not receiving enough light include:
- Elongated internodes (space between leaf/stem unions).
- Pale foliage color on new leaves.
- Dieback of older leaves.
Domenghini and her colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with tips for maintaining home landscapes and gardens.
Interested persons can subscribe to the newsletter, as well as send their garden and yard-related questions to [email protected], or contact your local K-State Research and Extension office.
