Houseplant hacks: how can I stop my plants dying when I turn on the central heating?

"The problem As soon as the heating is switched on, houseplants start to struggle. Warm, dry air strips moisture from leaves, dries soil faster, and turns cosy corners into arid microclimates. Many people mistakenly think radiator heat is similar to sunlight warm and life-giving but it isn't. Sunlight provides energy for photosynthesis, while radiator heat is dry, stagnant and relentless, closer to a slow cooker than sunshine."

"The hack Before turning on the heating, give your plants a seasonal reset. Move them away from radiators or vents (at least half a metre, ideally). Group plants together to create a pocket of humidity, or place a bowl of water nearby to counteract dryness. Top-dress tired soil with fresh compost, trim off any yellowing leaves and wipe dust from the foliage so the plants can breathe. Water lightly, then let them rest in bright, indirect light to adjust before winter sets in."

"The method You're easing them into a slower season. As daylight hours decrease, growth naturally slows, so plants need less food and water. By preparing them before the heating starts to blast, you minimise temperature shock and prevent that slow-cooked dehydration that sneaks up indoors. Last year, I skipped this ritual and my calatheas crisped within weeks. This autumn, after a gentle reset and relocation, they're thriving."

Warm, dry indoor air from heating systems strips moisture from leaves, dries soil faster, and creates arid microclimates that stress houseplants. Radiator heat is dry and stagnant, not a substitute for sunlight, which provides photosynthetic energy. A seasonal reset before heating starts reduces temperature shock: move plants at least half a metre from radiators or vents, group them to raise humidity or place a bowl of water nearby, top-dress soil with compost, trim yellow leaves, wipe foliage dust, water lightly, and allow bright, indirect light to help adjustment. Reduced daylight means lower water and feeding needs during winter.

Read at www.theguardian.com