Cold and Chilly Winter
The threat of low temperatures in winter to plants far exceeds that of other seasons. When the temperature drops below 10℃, over 60% of indoor plants will experience growth obstacles. Botanists have found that 42% of the failures in winter maintenance are directly related to improper watering. In an environment with a temperature difference greater than 8℃, the risk of root rot caused by watering mistakes will increase by more than threefold.
Three Taboos of Watering Plants in Winter
01 Standard for Water Temperature Control
Experimental data shows that when the temperature difference between water and potting soil is greater than 5℃, the root contraction rate of plants increases by 70%. It is recommended to let tap water stand for 24 hours, then add an appropriate amount of warm water to adjust it to 18-22℃ (a temperature difference of ±3℃ from the ambient temperature). Professional gardeners recommend using a thermometer to measure, rather than relying on hand sensation.
02 Timing for Using Fertilized Water
The metabolic rate of plants in winter drops to 1/3 of that in summer. Applying kitchen waste fertilizers like rice washing water or beer solution at this time can lead to an EC value 1.8 times higher than normal. The Horticultural Laboratory of Tsinghua University has confirmed that the survival rate of plants fertilized between December and February decreases by 55% the following year, and it is recommended to completely stop using organic fertilizers.
Cold and Chilly Winter
03 Quantitative Watering Plan
Adopt the '333 watering method': ① Water when the top 3cm of soil is dry ② Each watering amount does not exceed 30% of the pot's capacity ③ Observe the condition every 3 days. For succulent plants, reduce the amount to 1/4 of the regular amount, and for foliage plants, maintain 1/2 of the water volume.
Mastering these three elements of maintenance can increase the survival rate of plants in winter to over 92%. It is recommended to use smart temperature and humidity meters to monitor environmental data. When the air humidity is less than 40%, use the immersion pot method instead of direct watering. Remember: Winter maintenance is like a traditional Chinese medicine pulse-taking - observe, judge, and implement precise strategies.