Grooming plants for winter stay indoors

Home plant lovers should begin moving tender plants indoors for protection against cold temperatures at this time of year. These specimens enhance interior spaces by adding interesting forms, textures and colors.

Before moving plants indoors, they should be groomed so they will be attractive inside the home. Such preparations should include:

Cleaning the container. Use a brush and a solution of warm, soapy water, plus a bleaching agent to kill algae.

Removing dust and debris from foliage. If you wish to have natural-colored foliage, clean with a mild solution of dishwashing soap and water, then thoroughly drench with clear water. For a glossier appearance, use whole milk in the treatment. Moisten a sponge or cloth in milk and wipe the foliage. The low-fat content of the milk will give the plant a nice glossy appearance and yet not appear artificial, which is the case with commercial plant-shine products.

Remove all dead or yellow foliage and dead or injured branches, stems and/or stubs.

Do not re-pot immediately prior to moving plants indoors. Re-potting should be done four to six weeks before taking them inside.

Provide as much light as possible. The difference in light intensity from outdoors to indoors is tremendous. Expect to have considerable leaf drop until the plant becomes acclimated. The greater the difference in light levels from outside to inside, the more leaf drop you can expect. Avoid locating plants directly beneath a heat vent.

During their indoor stay over the colder months, house plants will need less water and fertilizer. Water only when the plants need it. To judge when they need watering, stick your finger into the soil to a depth of about 1 inch. If the soil feels moist, do not water. Water plants in dry soil thoroughly, then allow the soil to become fairly dry again before the next watering.

Little or no fertilizer is needed for indoor plants during the winter. If they get good light, warm temperature and are showing new growth, you may fertilize them once a month, using either liquid or water-soluble fertilizer. Follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the amount to use.

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Alan Vaughn is the LSU AgCenter's county agent for St. Bernard and Plaquemines parishes. He can be reached at 504.433.3664 or 504.278.4234.