Indoor Plants in July: Keeping Your Indoor Garden Thriving

As winter fully settles in across New Zealand, many gardeners turn their attention indoors to nurture their houseplants. July can be a challenging time for indoor plants due to lower light levels and fluctuating temperatures, but with the right care, your indoor garden can thrive. Let’s explore how to keep your indoor plants healthy and happy during this winter month.

1. Light Management

With shorter days and often overcast skies, indoor plants may struggle to get enough light in July. Here are some tips to ensure they receive adequate sunlight:

• Rotate Your Plants: Turn your indoor plants every couple of weeks to ensure all sides receive equal light. This encourages balanced growth and prevents them from leaning toward the light source.

• Clean Windowpanes: Dust and dirt on windows can block valuable sunlight. Make it a habit to clean your windows regularly to maximise light exposure.

• Supplement with Grow Lights: If natural light is limited, consider using grow lights. LED grow lights can provide the necessary light spectrum for your plants, especially during the darkest months.

2. Watering Wisely

Indoor plants generally require less water during the winter months due to decreased evaporation and growth. Here’s how to manage watering in July:

• Check Soil Moisture: Before watering, stick your finger into the soil about an inch deep. If it feels dry, it’s time to water; if it’s still moist, wait a few more days.

• Adjust Watering Frequency: Reduce the frequency of watering, as many plants enter a semi-dormant state in winter. Overwatering can lead to root rot, so always check soil moisture first.

3. Humidity Considerations

Indoor heating can lower humidity levels, which may stress your plants. Some methods to maintain adequate humidity include:

• Group Plants Together: Placing plants close to each other can create a microclimate with higher humidity.

• Use a Humidifier: If you have multiple plants that require higher humidity, consider using a humidifier in the room.

• Pebble Trays: Create a humidity tray by filling a shallow dish with pebbles and water, placing your plant pots on top. As the water evaporates, it increases humidity around the plants.

4. Pest Management

Winter can sometimes lead to indoor pests, such as spider mites or aphids. Keep an eye out for any signs of infestations:

• Inspection: Regularly check the undersides of leaves and the soil for signs of pests. Early detection is key to effective management.

• Natural Remedies: If you notice pests, consider using natural remedies like neem oil or insecticidal soap to treat the affected areas.

5. Fertilising Needs

During July, most indoor plants have reduced growth rates and may require less fertilisation. Here’s what to keep in mind:

• Pause Fertilising: Most houseplants can benefit from a pause in fertilisation during the winter months. Begin fertilising again in early spring, once you see new growth.

• Use Diluted Fertiliser: If you notice your plants seem to need a nutrient boost, consider a diluted, balanced liquid fertiliser, applying it sparingly.

6. Repotting and Propagation

Winter can be a great time to repot or propagate certain plants:

• Repotting: If you have any plants that have outgrown their pots or show signs of being root-bound, this is a good time for repotting. Make sure to choose a pot that is only slightly larger than the current one and use fresh potting mix.

• Propagation: Take advantage of the winter months by propagating plants, such as Pothos or Philodendron. Simply cut a stem and place it in water or potting soil to encourage new growth.

July offers unique challenges and opportunities for indoor gardeners in New Zealand. By focusing on light management, adjusting watering habits, maintaining humidity, and being vigilant about pests, you can ensure your indoor plants remain healthy and vibrant throughout the winter. Embrace the beauty of indoor gardening as you nurture your green companions, knowing that spring is just around the corner!