Early spring is here, and many of us are itching to get our hands in the soil. Starting inside, by giving our houseplants some post-winter love and attention, is a great way to satisfy that springtime gardening urge and to set them up for success in the coming months.
Mollie Freilicher agrees. She is the residential horticulture specialist at Tri River Area Colorado State University Extension, home to the busiest plant and garden help desk in Colorado. “In the spring, especially, as the light is changing and plants start coming out of a slower time of growth, we can take a look at them, adjust watering, repot, and prune,” she says.
A spring houseplant tune-up will help them make the most of the active growing season ahead — and you’ll reap the beautiful rewards.
SPRING CLEANING
Winter dust can collect on plant foliage, blocking light and reducing airflow. Clean the leaves by gently wiping them with a soft cloth while supporting them from underneath.
PRUNE FOR GROWTH
Trim away any dead, damaged, or yellowing leaves with clean, sharp scissors or pruners. Snipping old foliage allows plants to redirect energy toward fresh, healthy growth.
SOIL CHECKUP
Freilicher says that over time, salt can build up, resulting in a white crust on top of the soil and/or brown or yellowing leaves. Remove the crust as needed, loosen compacted soil, and flow plenty of fresh water through the pot. Top off with a layer of fresh potting soil.
ROOM TO GROW
Move plants that have outgrown their containers to a clean pot just slightly larger than the current one. Use a high-quality potting mix suited to the plant type, and water before repotting to reduce transplant shock. Carefully loosen bound roots and remove any black or mushy sections before transplanting.
FOOD AND WATER
Feed plants every two to four weeks with a balanced fertilizer, measuring carefully to avoid burning the roots. In Colorado’s dry climate, Freilicher says the lack of humidity can be challenging and that placing plants in areas with higher humidity, like the bathroom, can help.
For more houseplant tips and help with specific issues, Freilicher suggests visiting CSU Extension’s PlantTalk Colorado website at planttalk.colostate.edu or contact your local extension office. “Many offices have help desks, and you can even bring a plant in,” she says.
As springtime unfolds outside, enjoy the plant renewal that is also happening inside. Your thriving houseplants will thank you for it!
Mary Peck connects Coloradans with practical tips, ideas, and information to help them prosper.
