Green Homecoming: Your Complete Guide to Bringing Houseplants Indoors

As the leaves turn and the chill of autumn sets in, it’s time to welcome your green friends back inside. While they’ve enjoyed a summer basking under the sun, the transition indoors is crucial for their survival during the cooler months. Whitehouse Nursery presents a comprehensive guide to repotting, cleaning, and ensuring your houseplants remain pest-free as they adapt to their indoor environment once again.

Repotting Essentials:

• Check the Roots: Before moving your plant indoors, examine its roots. If they’re circling the bottom or emerging from the drainage holes, it’s time for a bigger home.
• Choose the Right Pot: Select a pot that is 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Ensure it has adequate drainage holes.
• Refresh the Soil: Use a quality potting mix that provides good aeration and drainage. Replacing the old soil also reduces the risk of pest infestations.
• Be Gentle: When transferring your plant, be careful not to damage the roots. Trim any excessively long or dead roots.

Cleaning Rituals:

• Dust Off: Use a soft, damp cloth to gently wipe down leaves, removing dust and any pests that may be lurking.
• Prune Away: Get rid of dead or yellowing leaves and trim any excessive growth to help your plant focus its energy on adapting to the indoor climate.
• Bathe Them: For smaller plants, a lukewarm shower can help dislodge any pests and refresh the plant. Just be sure to let it drain thoroughly.

Pest Removal Tactics:

• Inspect and Detect: Before any indoor migration, inspect your plants for signs of pests like discolored leaves, sticky residue, or visible bugs.
• Natural Remedies: Introduce natural predators like ladybugs for aphid problems, or use neem oil as a non-toxic option to treat infestations.
• Isolation: Keep newly moved plants isolated from your indoor collection for a few weeks to ensure no pests spread to your healthy plants.
• Consistent Care: Regularly check your plants for pests and treat immediately. Prevention is easier than cure when it comes to plant pests.

Bringing your houseplants indoors doesn’t have to be daunting. With these simple steps, you can ensure they remain healthy, vibrant, and continue to bring a touch of nature into your home throughout the colder months. Visit Whitehouse Nursery for all your potting needs and personalized advice for your specific houseplants.