As cold weather creeps across the UK, indoor plant enthusiasts face growing challenges in maintaining their leafy companions.
The shorter daylight hours can make it particularly difficult to keep houseplants thriving during the colder months.
For urban dwellers with limited outdoor space, indoor plants offer a vital connection to nature, creating a peaceful and homely atmosphere. But they are more difficult to care for in the winter.
Fortunately, there are practical solutions available to help maintain a flourishing indoor garden throughout the winter months.
Mirrors can be used to get more light to houseplants
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Senior resident services manager at Grainger plc’s The Mint development in Guildford, Kimberley Pope, shares two techniques to give your plants a boost.
Self-watering tools emerge as a crucial solution for maintaining healthy indoor plants, particularly for those with demanding schedules, the expert explained.
She said: “Self-watering tools, such as plant water globes, are a fantastic option for anyone who finds it difficult to keep up with regular watering.”
These devices can sustain plants for up to two weeks, offering peace of mind during holidays or busy work periods.
Kimberley added the globes come in various colours and designs, complementing modern apartment aesthetics. For the environmentally conscious, self-watering plant pots present a sustainable alternative.
These specialised pots feature built-in water reservoirs, allowing plants to absorb moisture as needed and to maintain consistent hydration levels.
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Houseplants are more difficult to care for in the cold months
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The strategic use of mirrors is another great solution for maximising natural light during winter’s darker days.
Kimberley added: “Mirrors can be a simple yet effective way to boost the amount of light your plants receive.
“By strategically placing mirrors opposite dark corners or near windows, you can reflect light back into the room, creating a brighter and more spacious feel while giving your plants the sunlight they crave.”
This technique not only benefits plant health but also creates the illusion of more space in urban homes.
By reflecting available sunlight back into the room, mirrors help ensure indoor plants receive the light they need to thrive during the winter months.