11 Simple Steps for Perfect Houseplant Care This Spring

Spring is the perfect time to refresh your routine, and houseplant care should be at the top of your list. As the days get longer and temperatures rise, your plants start waking up from their winter rest.

But what changes should you make to keep them thriving – and how can you help them adjust to the new season?

Let’s explore the best spring care tips to keep your houseplants happy and healthy.

1. Increase watering frequency

As spring arrives, your houseplants will need more water. They’re waking up from winter dormancy and starting to grow again. You’ll need to adjust your watering schedule to keep up with their increased thirst.

Check your plants’ soil moisture more often. Stick your finger about an inch into the soil – if it feels dry, it’s time to water. Most plants will need watering every 5-7 days, but this can vary.

Pay attention to environmental factors that affect water needs. Warmer temperatures, more sunlight, and lower humidity all mean your plants will dry out faster. Plants in smaller pots or terracotta containers may need water more frequently too.

Don’t overdo it, though. Too much water can be just as harmful as too little.

Make sure your pots have drainage holes and empty saucers after watering. Adjust gradually and watch how your plants respond.

Consider using a moisture meter if you’re unsure about when to water. These tools can help you get a better sense of your plants’ needs as they change with the seasons.

2. Fertilize with a balanced houseplant fertilizer

As spring arrives, your houseplants need a nutrient boost. Feed them with a balanced fertilizer to support new growth. Choose a product specifically formulated for indoor plants.

Look for a fertilizer with equal ratios of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium (NPK), as this is usually the perfect balance for houseplants. Specifically, these nutrients are crucial for leaf, root, and flower development.

(For flowering plants, consider a fertilizer with a slightly higher phosphorus content. This will encourage more blooms. Foliage plants, like most houseplants, do tend to do better though with a balanced NPK ratio.)

Apply the fertilizer according to the package instructions – usually every 2-4 weeks during the growing season.

Liquid fertilizers are easy to use and quickly absorbed by plants. Mix them with water and apply when you’re watering.

That said, slow-release granules are another option, providing nutrients over time. I have to say though that my personal preference is a liquid fertilizer, mainly for how easy it is to apply.

Don’t overfeed your plants – this can lead to salt buildup in the soil. If you notice brown leaf tips, you might be fertilizing too much.

Another good thing to keep in mind is to always water your plants before applying fertilizer to prevent root burn.

3. Rotate plants for even sunlight

Plants grow towards light sources. This natural behavior can lead to uneven growth if they’re always facing the same direction. That’s why you may notice some houseplants becoming lopsided or leaning towards windows over time.

To promote balanced growth, rotate your plants regularly. A quarter turn every week or two is usually enough. This simple habit ensures all sides of the plant get equal exposure to light.

For plants near windows, rotation is especially important. It prevents the side facing away from becoming sparse or weak. You’ll see more uniform leaf distribution and a fuller appearance overall.

Don’t forget about hanging plants – they benefit from rotation too. Spin their pots or baskets occasionally to keep growth even. This practice also helps you spot any issues on all sides of the plant.

Remember, some plants might temporarily look a bit odd after rotation. Don’t worry – they’ll adjust their growth direction within a few days.

Keep up this routine, and you’ll enjoy healthier, more attractive houseplants as spring arrives.

4. Repot if roots are crowded

Spring is the perfect time to check if your houseplants need repotting. Roots poking out of drainage holes or circling the bottom of the pot are clear signs it’s time for a larger home.

If you notice any in your collection looking like this, you’ll want to gently remove the plant from its current container to inspect the root system.

Choose a new pot that’s 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. Make sure it has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Fill the new pot with fresh, well-draining potting mix designed for indoor plants.

Carefully loosen the root ball and trim any damaged or overly long roots before placing the plant in its new home. Water thoroughly after repotting, but avoid fertilizing for a few weeks to give your plant time to adjust.

Keep an eye on your newly repotted plant. It may show signs of stress like drooping leaves, but this should pass as it settles into its roomier quarters.

With proper care, your houseplant will thrive in its new pot throughout the spring and beyond.

5. Check soil moisture regularly

Proper soil moisture is crucial for houseplants as spring arrives. This is why you’ll need to adjust your watering routine to match the changing needs of your plants.

Regular checks will help you avoid over or under-watering issues. To do this, stick your finger about an inch into the soil to test moisture levels. If it feels dry, it’s time to water.

While I know it can be tempting to do so, don’t rely on a set schedule – plants’ needs can vary based on factors like sunlight, temperature, and humidity.

Different plants have different moisture preferences. Some like to dry out between waterings, while others prefer consistently moist soil. Learn about your specific plants’ needs to provide the best care.

Use a moisture meter for more precise readings if you’re unsure. These tools can be especially helpful for larger pots or plants that are sensitive to water levels. They’ll give you a more accurate picture of moisture throughout the soil.

Remember that overwatering is just as harmful as underwatering. Soggy soil can lead to root rot and other problems. When in doubt, it’s often better to wait an extra day before watering.

6. Increase humidity with a pebble tray

A pebble tray is a simple and effective way to boost humidity around your houseplants. It’s especially helpful for tropical plants that thrive in moist environments.

Luckily, you can easily create one at home with a few basic materials. Start with a shallow tray or dish and fill it with a layer of small pebbles or decorative stones. Add water to the tray, but don’t submerge the pebbles completely.

Place your plant pot on top of the pebbles. Make sure the bottom of the pot isn’t sitting in water – this can lead to root rot. As the water evaporates, it’ll increase the humidity around your plant.

Remember to refill the tray regularly as the water evaporates. You can also mist the pebbles occasionally to boost humidity further. This method works well for plants like ferns, orchids, and peace lilies.

For larger plants or multiple pots, you might need a bigger tray. You can also use decorative pebbles to make the tray more visually appealing.

7. Prune dead or yellow leaves

Remove any dead or yellow leaves from your houseplants as spring arrives. This simple task improves the plant’s appearance and health. It also prevents potential disease spread to healthy parts of the plant.

To do this, grab a pair of clean, sharp scissors or pruning shears. Carefully cut off the yellowing or dead leaves at the base where they meet the stem. Be gentle to avoid damaging nearby healthy foliage.

For smaller plants, you can often remove dead leaves by hand. Gently tug on the leaf – if it’s truly dead, it should come off easily. If it resists, use your scissors instead.

After pruning, dispose of the removed leaves in your compost bin or trash. Don’t leave them on the soil surface, as this can attract pests or encourage fungal growth.

Regular pruning encourages new growth and helps maintain the plant’s shape. It’s best to check your plants weekly during the growing season for any leaves that need removal.

8. Choose a bright spot with indirect light

Most houseplants thrive in bright, indirect light. This means placing them near windows but not in direct sunlight. The ideal spot is a few feet away from a south-facing window or close to an east or west-facing one.

Avoid putting plants right next to sunny windows. Direct sun can scorch leaves and dry out soil too quickly. Instead, look for areas that get plenty of natural light without harsh rays hitting the plants directly.

If you’re unsure about light levels, try the shadow test. Hold your hand up at different spots throughout the day. A faint shadow means good indirect light. No shadow means it’s too dark, while a sharp shadow indicates direct sun.

Some plants need more light than others. Research your specific plants’ needs and adjust their placement accordingly. You can also use sheer curtains to filter bright light if needed.

Remember that light levels change with the seasons. You might need to move plants as the sun’s position shifts. Keep an eye on your plants and relocate them if they start to look unhappy in their current spot.

9. Dust off leaves gently

You’ll need to dust your houseplants’ leaves regularly as spring arrives. This simple task helps your plants thrive by allowing them to absorb more sunlight. It’s easy to do and only takes a few minutes.

Grab a soft, damp cloth and gently wipe down each leaf. Be careful not to press too hard or damage delicate foliage. For plants with fuzzy leaves, use a soft brush instead of a cloth.

Don’t forget about the undersides of leaves – dust can accumulate there too. Clean them gently to prevent pests from hiding out.

In general, I’d suggest that you avoid using leaf shine products, as they can clog the plant’s pores. Stick to plain water for best results.

For larger plants, you might want to give them a quick shower in the bathroom or outside with a gentle spray.

Regular dusting will keep your houseplants looking fresh and healthy. It’s a simple way to show your green friends some extra care as they gear up for the growing season.

10. Inspect for pests frequently

Regular pest checks are crucial for healthy houseplants. You should examine your plants at least once a week for any signs of infestation. Look closely at the leaves, stems, and soil surface for tiny bugs, webs, or unusual spots.

Common pests include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. These critters can quickly multiply and spread to other plants if left unchecked. Pay extra attention to the undersides of leaves and leaf joints where pests often hide.

If you spot any pests, take action right away. Isolate the affected plant to prevent the problem from spreading. You can often remove small infestations by wiping leaves with a damp cloth or spraying them with a mild soap solution.

For more severe cases, you might need to use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Always follow the product instructions carefully. Remember that prevention is key – keeping your plants clean and healthy makes them less attractive to pests.

11. Provide consistent temperature

Houseplants thrive when their environment remains stable, with most indoor plants preferring temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). Sudden changes can stress your green friends and hinder their growth.

Keep them away from drafty windows and doors to avoid cold spots. Similarly, don’t place plants near heating vents or air conditioners.

These areas experience frequent temperature fluctuations that can harm your leafy pals. If you’re using a space heater, make sure it’s not too close to your plants.

Consider grouping plants with similar temperature needs together. This makes it easier to maintain ideal conditions for each type. Remember to adjust your thermostat gradually when transitioning between seasons to help your plants adapt smoothly.

During hot summer days, you might need to increase watering frequency. Conversely, in colder months, reduce watering as plants typically grow slower. Always check the soil moisture before watering to avoid overwatering.

By maintaining a consistent temperature, you’ll create a comfortable environment for your houseplants to flourish. They’ll reward you with healthy growth and vibrant foliage throughout the year.