5 Steps To Take Before Bringing Plants Inside For The Winter

Beware of Hitchhikers

Before the big move, make sure to check the outside of the pot, the plants, and the potting medium for unwanted house guests. This would include moss, mold, mealy bugs, spider mites, worms, snails, or ants. Scrub the outside of the pot with a 10% bleach cleaning solution to get rid of dirt and mold. An easy way to check the potting medium, is to soak the pot in a tub of lukewarm water for a few minutes. If there are any unwanted pests, they will scramble to the surface for air. Depending on what, or how many of these pests you find, you may want to consider repotting the plant.

Plan and Prepare

Before officially moving your plants inside, take time to consider optimal placement for each plant. Does your plant need full sun? Place it near a south facing window. Does your plant need partial sun? Place it near an east or west facing window. You should also avoid areas that may get a winter draft from open doors or windows. Also consider grouping plants together to create more humidity in the growing area.