WINTER HOUSEPLANT CARE

1 Water sparingly

In winter, growth is slow so less water is needed. The potting mix should be dry on top and just moist (like a squeezed out sponge) beneath.

2 Warm but not too hot

Many houseplants are tropical and don’t like cold nights. Place them where there is warmth and bright light but not direct sun. Remember the sun is at a lower angle in winter. Avoid cold draughts but move them away from heaters.

3 Create humidity

Heaters create dry air, which many houseplants don’t like. To improve the humidity around the likes of orchids and ferns, sit plants on a dish of stones filled with water so that the pot sits just above, not in, the water.