Let’s face it, cooler weather is here to stay for the next few months. However, if you enjoy cultivating plants, you can still enjoy your precious garden. Many plants can be grown indoors during the cold months and continue to thrive in a cozy home environment. They will lend life and color to your home during the drab winter season. Following are five tips for caring for your indoor fruits, vegetables and herbs.
Choosing a pot
You can get as decorative as you’d like when it comes to choosing a pot. You must ensure that a drainage hole is located at the bottom to prevent trapped water and rotting roots in the watering process. Terra-cotta pots, or clay pots, allow air and moisture to penetrate the sides of the pot, while plastic pots come in multiple colors and are great for retaining moisture.
Proper watering
Most plants can be watered once per day and thrive. Overwatering can kill your plants quickly. Water your plants when 1 inch from the soil surface is dry and water until it begins to drain at the bottom, which prevents salt buildup. A big item to note is to be sure the plant does not sit in a puddle of water afterward. Missing this crucial step could cause root rot.
Crank up the humidity
Low humidity levels inside homes are common in the cooler months as we run the heat often. A reliable way to identify if your plant is in need of more moisture is to see if the plant appears withered, puckered, or simply dropping its leaves. Try misting your plants with water or consider investing in a humidifier.
Make room to grow
When a household plant outgrows its pot, the roots will circle the inside perimeter of the pot which will restrict its growth. You may also notice your plant becoming dry more often. Simply repot your plant in another pot that is one to two inches bigger than the last.
What’s your source of light?
Many plants need 4 to 6 hours of light and not simply household lights, but actual sunlight. It is best to find a place for your plant in the eastern, western or southern part of your home.
Source: kitchn.com, bgh.com.
Top fragrant houseplants
- Arabian Jasmine
- Citrus
- Eucalyptus
- Sweet Bay
- Orange Jessamine
Best herbs to grow indoors
- Basil
- Bay
- Chives
- Oregano
- Parsley
- Sage
- Rosemary
- Thyme
Garden centers in Indy
- Dammann’s Lawn & Garden Center: 8005 E. 30th St.
- Rosie’s Gardens & Hughes Landscape: 10402 N. College Ave.
- Andrea’s Garden Center Inc: 5412 E. 65th St.
- Habig Garden Cottage: 1225 E. 86th St.
