‘Stressful environment’: How to avoid houseplants becoming ‘crispy’ and ‘dry’ in winter

Houseplants: Experts explain why leaves might be falling off

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Contrary to popular belief, many houseplants are easy to care for, and can thrive for many years if done so correctly. However, if some are placed in the wrong environment or not kept in the necessary conditions, they can face several problems. One expert has urged plant owners to control the temperature of the rooms houseplant are kept in to avoid them getting damaged.

Kate Lindley, Product Manager at Baby Bio, Britain’s iconic houseplant feed and care products brand, exclusively told Express.co.uk how the winter is a “stressful environment” for indoor plants as they are constantly battling with extreme temperatures.

She said: “Most houseplants sit happily on our windowsills throughout the spring and summer, however in winter this can be a very stressful environment for plants, battling between the heat of radiators below and the draught coming through the windows. 

“As a general rule, plants don’t like being too warm or too cold.

“Any extreme temperatures from central heating and fires or draughts can cause damage.”

Kate explained how it is best to keep indoor plants away from areas that are too cold or too hot.

She said: “It is best to move them away from intense heat or cold corners.

“Whether that means moving them to a more central position in the room or elevating them away from the source.”

Kate explained that wherever the houseplant is placed, owners should make sure the temperature doesn’t fluctuate from very hot to very cold and they should be happy.

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Each individual houseplant prefers different conditions so owners will need to know what type of plant they have.

Kate said: “Of course, the environment your plant prefers depends on the species. 

“Plants like the ponytail palm and aloe vera can cope in higher temperatures. 

“Hardy varieties like the cast iron plant don’t mind a draught, whereas bonsai trees are sensitive to a slight breeze.”

The houseplant expert urges Britons to always do their research before relocating.

The heating can play a massive part in houseplants becoming “dry” and “crispy” during the winter period.

Kate said: “Don’t forget that heating also dries out the air in our homes quite drastically, which can lead to crisp, dry leaves. 

“Invest in a humidifier or place your plants next to a tray of pebbles in a shallow layer of water to increase humidity.

“Remember to give them a gentle but regular mist using tepid water, too.”

Misting plants can help with rising humidity levels as well as helping to avoid overwatering of the plant.

The expert added: “Grouping plants together can also help increase humidity levels and prevent that dreaded winter crisp!”

Raising the humidity around indoor plants helps them to stay healthy in the winter.

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