Gardening

Caring for Plants Overwintering Indoors

by Melinda Myers
Gardeners are notorious for pushing the limits of their growing zones. Tropical plants, succulents, and other plants that are not hardy to the winter climate often end up indoors for the winter. It usually starts with one or two plants that you just can't part with or are concerned you won't be able to purchase next year. Since you are taking a couple of plants in for the winter, why not add a few more?

Now that the plants have been indoors for several weeks or months you are faced with keeping them alive and the leaf litter on the floor to a minimum. As the plants adjust and acclimate to their new environment, some leaves may have turned yellow or brown and dropped off the plant. This is due to the lower light and humidity indoors.

New leaves better adapted to the lower light indoors should begin appearing. If the plants do not appear to be acclimating to the indoors, try increasing the amount of light they receive. Move them in front of a sunnier window or under artificial lights. A combination of natural and artificial lights works well.

Select a location free of drafts of hot and cold air. Avoid placing plants above heat vents or near drafty windows and doors. Succulents prefer cool but draft-free locations over winter.

Next, help your plants deal with the dry air indoors. Group plants together for an attractive display and to increase the humidity around each plant. As one plant loses moisture from its leaves and transpires, the others benefit from this added moisture.

Reduce maintenance and increase the humidity by setting plants on a layer of gravel, marbles, or a similar material set in trays or saucers. The pebbles elevate the pots above any water that collects in the saucer, helping reduce the risk of waterlogged soil that can lead to root rot. This technique allows you to water thoroughly while eliminating the need to pour off the excess water. As the excess water evaporates, it increases the humidity around the plants.

Adjust your watering schedule to compensate for the reduced light and changes in room temperature and humidity. Check the soil moisture before watering. In general, water thoroughly when the top inch of soil is dry. For succulents, allow the top few inches of soil to dry and water just often enough to prevent the plants from shriveling.

Most indoor plants do not need to be fertilized in winter. Only those that are actively growing will need additional nutrients. Don't be fooled by leggy growth and paler leaves on overwintering plants. Lower light is more likely the culprit than a lack of nutrients.

Regularly check the plants for insects and diseases. Examine the upper and lower leaf surfaces and along the stems. Then do a bit of research to properly identify the pest and find the best control options. If you opt to use a pesticide, read and follow all label directions for safe and effective control.

Prune as needed in spring to encourage fuller more compact growth. Begin fertilizing with a dilute solution of any flowering houseplant fertilizer as days lengthen, sunlight increases, and your plants show signs of improved growth.

As you move the plants into the garden next season, decide if it was worth the effort or better to purchase new plants. But as a gardener, you will likely repeat the process next year as it is part of the fun of gardening.

Melinda Myers has written more than 20 gardening books, including The Midwest Gardener's Handbook, 2nd Edition and Small Space Gardening. She hosts The Great Courses "How to Grow Anything" DVD series and the nationally-syndicated Melinda's Garden Moment TV & radio program. Myers is a columnist and contributing editor for Birds & Blooms magazine. Her web site is www.MelindaMyers.com.

Trips with Pets

Barking in the New Year:
Pet Parents' Pawsome Resolutions

by Kim Salerno, CEO/Founder TripsWithPets, Inc.
As we leap into a new year, pet parents across the U.S. are setting their sights on pawsome resolutions to ensure their furry companions lead happy, healthy, and tail-wagging lives. TripsWithPets.com surveyed dedicated pet moms and dads to discover their top resolutions for 2024, and the results are in! From health and wellness check-ups to socialization adventures, here's a glimpse into what the pet-loving community has in store for their four-legged family members.

1. Health and Wellness Check-ups (22%)
The leading resolution for 22% of respondents is prioritizing their furry companions' health. Regular veterinary check-ups, a balanced diet, and tailored exercise routines top the list. It's a resounding commitment to ensuring their pets live their best, healthiest lives.

2. Socialization Adventures (20%)
Coming in close behind, at 20%, is the resolution to embark on socialization adventures. Dog parents in particular are recognizing the importance of positive interactions with other pups and humans. From group walks or hikes to meet-ups with other dogs and their people, these adventures are geared toward fostering a sense of community for both dogs and their devoted owners.

3. Plan a Pet-Friendly Road Trip/Explore New Destinations (19%)
Pet-friendly road trips and exploring new destinations secured the third spot, with 19% of respondents eager to hit the open road with their four-legged co-pilots. From charming countryside retreats to beachfront getaways, pet parents are seeking out new experiences that cater to their furry friends.

4. Bonding and Quality Time (16%)
In the fourth position, 16% of respondents are resolved to deepen the bond with their furry family members through dedicated quality time. Whether it's trying out new activities together, creating a cozy corner at home, or simply enjoying some quiet cuddles, pet parents are making a conscious effort to strengthen their connection with their pets.

5. Mental Stimulation and Enrichment (9%)
Recognizing the importance of mental well-being, 9% of respondents are focusing on mental stimulation and enrichment for their pets. New toys, puzzles, and interactive activities are on the agenda, ensuring their pets stay mentally sharp and engaged in the coming year.

Honorable Mentions:
While the top five resolutions took center stage, other noteworthy resolutions mentioned by the respondents include:

• Grooming & Hygiene: A commitment to regular grooming routines, including brushing, bathing, and overall hygiene.
• Obedience Training: A dedication to reinforcing basic commands and behaviors, fostering a harmonious relationship between pet and owner.
• Update Safety Measures: An emphasis on safety measures, including checking microchips, updating ID tags, installing in-home cameras, and ensuring outdoor spaces are secure.

As we embark on this pawsome journey into 2024, it's heartening to see the unwavering dedication of pet parents to the well-being and happiness of their beloved fur babies. Each resolution is a testament to the strong bond and commitment shared between humans and their furry companions. Here's to a year filled with wagging tails, wet noses, and endless adventures with our four-legged family members!

About TripsWithPets
TripsWithPets is the go-to platform for booking pet-friendly accommodations, offering convenient online reservations across the United States and Canada. Pet parents turn to TripsWithPets.com for comprehensive resources on finding and booking the perfect pet-friendly accommodations, featuring detailed, up-to-date information on hotel pet policies and amenities.
As dedicated animal advocates, TripsWithPets actively supports local and national 501(c)(3) animal welfare organizations through their annual Partners for Animal Welfare Series (PAWS). This initiative raises crucial funds for the rescue, rehabilitation, and placement of animals in loving homes. Every booking made through TripsWithPets contributes directly to the PAWS initiative, making a tangible difference in the well-being of countless furry friends. Book a Stay, Change a Life.