January

In winter, many plants suffer from insufficient exposure to light. Additional lighting using special plant lighting can significantly improve the growth of plants.

Plants are grateful when they are regularly cleaned of dust. Sclerophyllous plants look particularly attractive when the leaves are sprayed with a leaf shine spray. Slight deposits of dust and lime stains disappear and the leaves have a permanent, matt-gloss sheen.

Many plants do not like warm air from radiators as it lowers the humidity. Damage such as browning of the leaf tips and edges, yellowing of the leaves and leaf drop may then occur. The dry air encourages the appearance of pests such as thrips, spider mites and others in the winter months. Increase humidity by simply hanging water evaporators on the radiators. Frequently spraying with lukewarm water does many plants good. Under no circumstances try to compensate for a lack of humidity in the air by watering more frequently. Waterlogged potting compost is a common cause of root damage caused by fungal pathogens or the appearance of fungus gnats. Test the moisture content of the potting soil with your finger to prevent overwatering.

Sew cress seeds in shallow bowls on the windowsill, they start to germinate in just a few days if kept moderately moist. This is a quick way to create some decorative greenery for the kitchen – and also tastes good too.

Many plants can be infested with thrips. They suck on the leaves producing silvery-looking spots and small black faeces deposits are often to be found on the leaves. Many kinds of palm trees and ivy are at particular risk. BugFree Bug and Larvae Killer⁺ is a natural spray against thrips. Spray the plant well from all sides. A repeat application is advisable.

Primroses (Primula vulgaris) can be brought in from the garden in frost-free weather. Plant them in a peat-free universal potting soil and place on the windowsill. They start to flower in a very short time and create a wonderful feeling of spring in a room.

Pre-cooled hyacinth bulbs can now be brought into a warm room. The previously cooled bulbs of tulips, daffodils and other spring flowers are suitable for forcing on the windowsill and produce many flowers within a short period of time. A peat-free soil especially designed for sowing and growing young plants and cuttings is particularly suited for forcing of spring flowers.