When the sun loses its summer momentum, plants start to wonder the same thing we do when winter comes: "Where should I go?" The outside temperatures fluctuate, the days get shorter, and while it may still seem like you can sit on the patio with a coffee in hand, things aren't so pleasant for your green roommates anymore.
Bringing plants indoors isn't just a matter of "moving them around a bit." It's a real operation—one that requires some emotional intelligence, a bit of botanical knowledge, and a lot of observation. Otherwise, you could end up with a scenario where the orchid dramatizes more than an Italian soap opera, and the succulent literally shuts itself in.
When should you start thinking about moving plants indoors?
A simple rule? When nighttime temperatures start to drop below 12°C, don't be fooled - it's time to move.
Don't wait for the first frost like you're waiting for the last bus. Tropical plants, for example, are particularly sensitive to cold evenings, and even 10°C can make them feel quite... uncomfortable. If you don't move them in time, this can lead to stunted growth, wilting leaves, or even - a warning to the more sensitive readers - permanent damage.
Let relocation be prevention, not intervention.
Plant preparation: wellness before moving
Just as we review what we need to leave behind before moving, plants also need to go through their own "detox".
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- Remove all dead and damaged parts. What is no longer alive is no longer needed – unless you are a fan of botanical zombies.
- Clean the leaves. Dust and mini-pests are not welcome guests in a new home. A little lukewarm water and a thorough inspection of the soil (especially the lower layers) can prevent many invasions in your living room.
- Pay attention to light and temperature. Don't put a plant from a sunny balcony right in front of a hot radiator – unless you want to film a dramatic plant version of "Top Gun: Maverick."
The most sensitive plants – VIP greens that require immediate attention
Some plants are just more dramatic.
Ficus, dracaena, shefflera, yucca
Very sensitive to change. They prefer stability – no drafts, no heat waves, and absolutely no moving every 5 days.
Succulents and cacti
Sun, yes. Frost? No way. Inside, they should enjoy as much light as possible, but be as reserved about watering as an introvert at a party.
Palm trees
Dry air does not suit them - spraying is a must, but do not water the rosette, otherwise you will grow fungi, not palm trees.
Orchids
These elegant butterflies among plants require light, but not scorching sun, and moisture, but not swampy. The ideal choice? A windowsill where they can comment on the weather.
Begonias and African violets
Highly sensitive flowers. They like stability – group them together to create their own microclimate. A true plant “commune”.
Autumn-winter care calendar: less is more
September
Gradually reduce your time outdoors. Examine the plants. Find the ideal corners in your apartment – bright but draft-free. Like choosing a seat in a café.
October
Time to move. Repot if necessary. Reduce watering, watch responses closely – like a good partner noticing every change in mood.
November–February
Plants go into "slow mode". Water minimally, forget about fertilizers, and protect them from cold soil (you can line the pots with wooden coasters or fabric).
Light and humidity: two winter challenges
Winter is not kind to your skin – and neither are the leaves. Central heating means dry air, which is quickly noticeable on the edges of the leaves. They start to dry out and look like they've survived a desert marathon.
Solution?
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- Shallow saucers of water next to plants.
- Air humidifiers.
- Group placement of plants.
- Additional lighting with LED lights if natural light is insufficient.
Conclusion: Plants are not just decoration
They are living beings that, with a little attention, give you back fresh air, visual peace, and – let's be honest – better company than many a Zoom meeting. So give them a few extra moments this fall – maybe this green routine will help you get through the winter with more warmth and peace.
