Hook
Shorter days don’t have to mean sad plants. Give every plant a tiny tune-up now and cruise through winter.
Steps
- Dust leaves with a damp cloth—clean leaves = better light absorption.
- Do a finger-test: if soil stays wet >5 days, add perlite or move to a brighter spot.
- Make a quick window map: morning sun = gentle; afternoon sun = stronger. Rotate plants weekly.
- Check drainage: elevate pots on risers; empty saucers within 10 minutes.
- Scan for pests (leaf undersides, nodes). Treat early with insecticidal soap or a gentle alcohol swab.
- Reduce fertilizer until late spring; switch to water-only or very light feed monthly.
- Set a calendar reminder: ‘Rotate & dust day’ every other Sunday.
Key Takeaways
- Clean leaves + right light = stronger winter growth.
- Water less often as days shorten; improve drainage.
- Catch pests early to avoid winter explosions.
Sprouty’s Quick Tip
Group plants by light and watering rhythm; batching = fewer mistakes.
