Experts say it’s time to bring houseplants indoors for season
Joe’s Market Basket Offers Advice on How to Care for Plants in Winter
O’FALLON – After a scorching summer, a much-needed cool down for the St. Louis region is on the way. Houseplants that thrived outside during the spring and summer need to be brought indoors as cooler temperatures quickly approach. Joe’s Market Basket General Manager Andy Klos has tips to keep plants thriving throughout the fall and winter.
Klos said houseplants start reaching the danger zone when temperatures get to around 50 degrees, especially tropicals like hibiscus that thrive in warm, humid climates. It’s important to start planning for cooler weather a few weeks in advance. Klos recommends moving any houseplants that received intense sun during the summer to a shadier spot outdoors before completely moving them inside.
“Moving a plant into your home directly from a sunny section outside with no acclimation period can shock the plant and cause long-term harm,” Klos said. “After a week or so in the shady area, you can bring them indoors. We also recommend checking plants for bugs and pests they might’ve picked up while outside. Showering them with water or even giving them a light bath with dishwashing soap can get rid of those pests.”
Klos said once the plants are inside, find a sunny windowsill where they can thrive. If the foliage is a little overgrown or has a few dead spots, Klos suggests pruning the plant so it fits nicely into its new home. Inside air tends to be dry during the winter periods, so a humidifier can help keep indoor plants thriving.
“We know people in our region love keeping tropicals inside during the chilly season, and one vital step people often forget to take when caring for them is to clean the windows where the plants are sitting,” Klos said. “If the windows are dirty, that blocks crucial sunlight from getting to the greenery. Don’t forget to clean dust off your plants’ leaves periodically throughout the fall and winter as well. Also, make sure to keep them away from any vents where harsh air could blow on them.”
Klos said grow lights are a way to ensure plants get substantial light during the winter, and the lights help those with limited windowsill space. When it comes to watering, Klos emphasized indoor plants don’t need to be watered as often as when they’re outside. Just make sure the soil never gets too dry for an extended period of time.
A variety of different plants can thrive indoors, including caladium, hibiscus, geranium, begonia, alyssum and more. With cooler temperatures finally on the horizon, it’s time to start planning an indoor oasis now.
Joe’s Market Basket is a family-owned business with four Illinois locations in Edwardsville, O’Fallon, Godfrey and Troy. Market Basket’s mission is to provide customers with an outstanding service experience and top-of-the-line products. For more information about Joe’s Market Basket, visit http://www.joesmarketbasket.com/.
