Houseplant enthusiasts know to adjust their care routines to match the changing seasons, with winter being one of the most challenging periods.
During the colder months, plants enter a period of reduced growth and hibernation and with this comes specific requirements.
The main winter challenges are dry air and reduced light levels, but overwatering also risks becoming more prominent.
Coffee may be a surprising saviour for struggling orchids during the harsh winter months, according to one house plant aficionado.
Connie was surprised by the effects coffee had on her plant
GETTY / TIKTOK / GREENTHUMBGOODLUCK
Connie, who goes by @greenthumbgoodluck on TikTok, feared she had overwatered her orchid when she discovered a pleasant surprise instead.
In an attempt to save her orchid she fed it coffee, and was later pleased to find that the plant had not only recovered but produced flowers too.
However, experts caution that coffee grounds must be used sparingly on orchids. While coffee provides key nutrients like phosphorus, potassium and calcium, its consistency risks blocking drainage in orchid pots.
Plant owners are therefore advised not to rely solely on coffee grounds for orchid nutrition.
Other mistakes to avoid
In a separate video, Connie cautioned that maintaining summer watering levels during winter could negatively affect plant health, as lower temperatures and reduced daylight slow down growth rates.
For succulent families and cacti, watering should be reduced to just once a month during winter, she explained.
More thirsty varieties can be watered every two weeks, but it’s crucial to remember that plants don’t absorb as much moisture during cold weather.
This seasonal adjustment in care is particularly important as plants naturally slow their growth cycles in response to shorter days and cooler temperatures.
Coffee offers key nutrients to houseplants
GETTY
Plant owners should also ensure proper drainage to prevent adverse effects on the plant’s root system.
Connie stressed that is equally important not to repot houseplants during the winter period, as they enter a period of reduced growth.
“They don’t grow so many roots”, the plant specialist said, noting that even plants on windowsills show decreased root development compared to summer months.
Spring is identified as the optimal time for repotting activities instead, said Connie.
