Watering in winter – what should you keep in mind?

Even the most experienced gardener knows that plants need to be watered regularly to thrive. But what about watering in winter? Of course, plants need water to survive even in the cold season. However, how often and how much depends on the plant. Hardy outdoor plants, potted plants, and houseplants all have very different water requirements.

Outdoor plants

Hardy plants, such as boxwood or hibiscus, can stay outdoors during the cold months and defy frosty temperatures. Their greatest enemy is not cold but drought, because it rarely rains in winter and snows more frequently. However, snow rarely penetrates to the plant's roots. In addition, the ground is usually frozen, so the plants cannot absorb moisture from there either. However, the winter sun's rays cause the water already absorbed to evaporate very quickly, especially through the leaves of evergreens. The consequences: water shortages and dehydration.

You can counteract this by watering generously, especially with evergreen plants, which need a lot of water. Dry plants can be watered more sparingly, but they still need regular watering. Frost-free days are ideal for watering dry soils thoroughly.

Potted plants

Potted plants that have to overwinter indoors significantly reduce their vital functions and therefore need to be watered sparingly – some, like the angel's trumpet, not at all. Here, too, the amount of water required varies from species to species, but in general, the following applies:

• the soil in the pot should be completely dry before you water again
• Watering once a week is usually sufficient
• the lower the temperatures, the less often you have to water

If your plant starts losing leaves despite regular watering and keeping the soil moist, it's usually not due to a lack of water, but rather the wrong location. Our tip: The winter quarters for your potted plants should be bright and not too warm, ideally a bright basement or shed, or a light-filled stairwell.

Houseplants

Indoor plants don't require as much adjustment in watering habits as outdoor plants or potted plants. Very heated rooms require more frequent watering than cooler ones. Here, too, the rule of thumb is: only water when the soil surface looks dry. Not only is underwatering a problem for plants, but overwatering can also be a problem. Any water that's still sitting in the cachepot or saucer after an hour should be discarded, as otherwise the roots won't get enough oxygen and will rot. This is called waterlogging.

By the way: Especially in heated rooms with dry air, it's recommended to occasionally spray plants with water in addition to watering. Rainwater is best, as it doesn't contain lime. You can also place water bowls between your green favorites or—the high-tech solution—use an electric humidifier.