Fall has begun and that means the time has come to phase out houseplant nutrition. Days are getting shorter and plants are slowly entering dormancy. In addition to a reminder, here we have a few reasons to phase out nutrition starting in October and why this is better for your plant.
1. Natural growth cycle
Plant growth and development stagnates somewhat during the winter months. By reducing nutrition during that period, you are aligning with the plant's natural rhythm. A grow light can help keep the plant growing, yet the sun is still not a substitute for many tropical houseplants.
2. Prevent over-fertilization
When more nutrition is applied than the plant can convert, damage to the plant can occur. The minerals then accumulate and the plant wants to throw this out. In some plants, this manifests itself in spots in the leaves from broken stomata and in other plants, even more of the cells break down. In addition, the roots may also be damaged.
3. Healthy rest period
By phasing out nutrition during the winter months, you give your plants a chance to quietly transition into dormancy. This is what the plant needs in order to be cranked up again in spring by the longer days. The plant will then start the spring stronger and healthier.
How do you make sure you cut down the feeding properly? Start by giving one-third less and less of the nutrition until you have nothing left in the water within 1 or 2 months. In addition, the amount of watering may also be reduced during the winter period. Look carefully at the care recommendations for your plant species to best match the care to your beautiful plant.
In spring, feeding can also be slowly built up again. If you do this properly, you will see that your plants will look even better!
