Moving into a new build is an excellent opportunity to create spaces that really meet your needs. Incorporating indoor houseplants is a popular way to add some natural life and colour to your new home. However, as winter approaches, the care of these green friends needs to adjust to the colder and darker months. In this article, we’ll discuss how the right approach to plant care can ensure your houseplants thrive throughout the winter in your new build home.
Understand Your Indoor Environment
Your new build property will enjoy enhanced energy efficiency and tight insulation. These factors also influence the indoor climate, which can affect houseplants. Typically, these homes retain heat well but can have lower levels of natural humidity and limited airflow, which is great for occupants but it isn’t always ideal for plants.
Monitor Humidity Levels
Many houseplants, especially tropical varieties, thrive in high humidity. In winter, heating systems can dry out the air inside your home, which can lead to dry leaves and stunted growth. Consider using a digital hygrometer to monitor the humidity levels. If the air is too dry, using a humidifier or placing a water tray near your heating system can help increase the humidity, as can regularly misting your plant’s leaves. Additionally, grouping plants together can create a microenvironment with higher moisture content.
Maximise Natural Light
Shorter days and less intense sunlight during winter can challenge indoor plants. Identify the sunniest spots in your home - often south-facing windows - and consider relocating your plants to these areas. However, be wary of cold drafts or heat sources that could stress the plants. If natural light is too limited, grow lights are an excellent investment to provide your plants with the necessary spectrum of light for photosynthesis.
Choose the Right Plants
Selecting the right houseplant for your home is important, especially in a new build where conditions such as light and humidity can differ significantly from older homes.
Hardy Plants for Lower Light
In situations where light is less abundant, opt for plants known for their low-light tolerance. Varieties like snake plants, ZZ plants, and cast iron plants are hardy and require minimal light and care. These plants are also less prone to the fluctuations of indoor heating.
Regular Care and Maintenance
Maintaining a routine is essential for the health of indoor plants, particularly in the challenging winter months. Make sure you incorporate plant care into some of your household duties such as when you’re cleaning. Below are a few ways that you can provide proper plant care for your houseplants during the winter months:
Watering Wisely
Overwatering is a common issue in winter, as plants’ growth slows down and they require less water. Always check the soil moisture before watering - the top inch of soil should be dry to the touch. Ensure pots have good drainage to prevent excess water from sitting at the roots, which can lead to rot.
Cleaning and Pruning
Regularly cleaning the leaves of your plants is important as it not only improves their appearance but also enhances their ability to absorb sunlight. Pruning dead or yellowing leaves will help prevent disease and promote new growth. What’s more, a little bit of attention can make your struggling houseplants look lush and vibrant so it’s definitely worth the effort.
Adapt and Observe
Finally, the key to successful indoor plant care, especially in a new environment like a new build, is observation and adaptation. Each plant will respond differently to indoor conditions, so it’s really important to watch for signs of stress like drooping leaves or discolouration and adjust care routines as needed.
Keep Your New Build Houseplants Happy This Winter
By understanding and adapting to the unique conditions of your new build and maintaining diligent care, your indoor plants can thrive even in the depths of winter. This is great because it enhances the aesthetic of your home while also promoting a healthier living environment for both you and your plants.
Still on the lookout for your forever home to fill with stunning houseplants? Then take a look at our developments at Beech Grove Homes. Or, if you have any questions please feel free to get in touch with one of our team today.