As autumn approaches and the days grow shorter, your precious houseplants are preparing for their own seasonal transition. Just like us, they need a little extra care and attention to thrive through the cooler, darker months ahead. Never underestimate the healing power of a quiet moment tending to your interior jungle at this time of year; it's good for both you and your green companions.
Understanding Autumn's Impact on Your Indoor Garden
When the seasons change, so do your plants' needs. As outdoor temperatures drop and daylight hours shrink, your houseplants naturally slow their growth and require less frequent watering. Think of it as their way of settling in for a cosy winter – they're not dormant, just taking things a bit easier.
The shift from summer's bright, warm days to autumn's gentler light means your plants will use water more slowly. But central heating can also create a drier atmosphere, making some plants crave a little extra humidity to keep their leaves looking lush and healthy.
Adjusting Your Watering Routine
As growth slows, most houseplants need watering less frequently – but when you do water, you’ll still want to give them a proper drink.
Top tip: Always check the soil before you water. Stick your finger about an inch into the compost, and if it feels dry, it's time for a drink. If it's still moist, hold off for a few days and check again. It’s generally always easier for your plants to recover from being underwatered vs overwatered.
For this balance of control and elegance, The Rowley Ripple is a favourite – its brass rose allows for both a gentle spray and a smooth pour, making watering part of the pleasure of plant care.
Light and Positioning
As the sun sits lower in the sky, you might need to shuffle your plants closer to windows to ensure they're getting enough light. South-facing windows become prime real estate in autumn, so don't be afraid to rearrange your interior garden.
Keep an eye on your plants' leaves for signs they need relocating. If they start looking pale or stretched, they're probably asking for more light. A simple move closer to a bright window can make all the difference.
Temperature and Humidity
Central heating can be a bit of a challenge for houseplants. While they appreciate the warmth, the dry air can leave their leaves looking a bit worse for wear. Here's where that gentle misting really comes into its own.
Top tips for maintaining humidity:
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Group plants together to create their own microclimate
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Move them to warm, humid rooms like the kitchen or bathroom
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Keep plants away from direct heat sources like radiators
A fine spray from a mister like The Smethwick Spritzer is perfect here. The gentle mist helps maintain humidity levels without overwatering, and it looks goregous on your shelf.
Cold draughts can also catch you out in autumn, particularly as the nights get colder. Keep an eye on particularly sensitive houseplants like calatheas and other tropical beauties, and move them away from doors or windows if necessary.
Feeding and Growth
As growth naturally slows in autumn, your plants likely won't need feeding as often, or at all. Reduce fertilising to once a month or stop altogether until spring or when you next see them actively growing again. Think of it as letting them have a well-deserved rest!
During this quieter phase, The Fazeley Flow 1 pint is ideal. Its slender design and effortless pour make small, occasional waterings feel like a moment of calm ritual.
Common Autumn Plant Problems
Yellowing leaves: This is often perfectly normal as plants naturally shed older leaves. However, if you're seeing lots of yellow leaves, check your watering routine – both overwatering and underwatering can cause this.
Brown leaf tips: Usually a sign that the air is too dry. Increase humidity with regular misting and move plants away from drying heat sources.
Dropping leaves: Don't panic! Many plants naturally drop some leaves as they adjust to lower light levels. As long as new growth appears healthy, your plant is just adapting.
Quick Autumn Plant Care Routine
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Check soil moisture before every watering session
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Mist tropical plants regularly to maintain humidity
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Rotate plants if needed so all sides get equal light
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Dust leaves gently to help them absorb maximum light
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Watch for changes and adjust care accordingly
Embracing the Season
Autumn is the perfect time to slow down and really connect with your plants. Use this season to observe how they respond to the changing conditions, and don't be afraid to adjust your routine as needed. Your interior jungle will reward your attention with healthy, foliage that brightens even the gloomiest autumn days.
After all, there's something rather wonderful about nurturing your own little corner of greenery when the world outside is preparing to rest. Your plants bring life and colour to your home year-round, so they deserve a little extra love as the seasons change.
