Tips to Adapt with the Cold Most indoor plant varieties originate from warm tropical environments—think of a balmy stroll through a lush Hawaiian jungle. Though plants can be very adaptable, conditions inside our homes are much different than these natural habitats, especially during winter. Our homes can be colder, or drier (thanks to heaters) and of course, darker. Always remember that as a general rule, less light & warmth = less water. As you strive for the perfect balance during the colder months of the year, here are a few reactions you may see from your green roommates: - Sudden Leaf Drop - This is your plant's way of disposing of old leaves to save energy. This happens naturally throughout the year, but if you're noticing this all of a sudden during winter, it may be that your plant is reacting to the change in temperature and stocking up on energy. To slow down the process, keep the room above 65ºF and move it away from cold windows which can cause cell damage on delicate foliage.
- Yellowing Leaves - Another way your plant tells you that it's done with a leaf, but also accelerated with changing temperatures. Help your plant by trimming these off, and keeping its space warm and humid.
- Growth on Pause - If you haven't seen any new growth lately, it's likely that your plant has sensed the cold and counted less hours of sunlight. These signals tell your plant that it's time to go dormant. Let your plant enjoy its sleep, water only when the soil is dry, and wait for it to wake during spring time!
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