PREPARE YOUR HOUSEPLANTS FOR THE SEASON OUTSIDE

Winter can be a stressful time for houseplants. They often endure low natural light and dry air from heaters, making them more susceptible to pests and diseases. Here is how to prepare them to live happily outside for spring and summer. 

When and why to re-pot

I prefer to repot houseplants in spring before I move them outside for the summer. This allows my plants to recover quickly and begin growing into their new pots. You should repot if your plant has outgrown its current pot, but all houseplants benefit from having their soil replenished annually. Repotting with fresh, nutrient-rich soil is a great way to keep your houseplants thriving. 

Remove dead leaves

Before you remove the plant from its pot, pinch off or trim dead and damaged leaves. If left on the plant, this can lead to fungal problems or rot.

Choose your pot

If your plant has outgrown its pot, choose a pot that has a drainage hole and is slightly larger. To prevent soil from leaking out of the hole, place a piece of landscape cloth at the bottom.

Replenish soil

Place a scoop or two of organic potting mix in the bottom of your pot. I like to use a fresh, nutrient rich mixture such as Miracle-Gro Organic™ Indoor Potting Mix. Lower the plant into its new (or same) pot and gently fill around it with fresh soil. The plant should sit at about the same height as it did previously. Tamp down the soil and water thoroughly.

Feed

Water and feed your plants with a liquid fertilizer, such as Miracle-Gro Organic™ Plant Food acts as an instant, quick-release plant food.