Indoor Flowers in Autumn Can Affect Health, So Be Careful

When autumn and winter arrive, it is time to move some potted plants indoors. Indoor air is relatively dry and the light is relatively dim, so at this time flowers can easily become an ideal living place for pests and bacteria. Below are several prevention and treatment suggestions:

1. Check for pests in time:

Check the plants' stems and the undersides of their leaves for pests and insect eggs. Plants that have just been brought indoors should be kept separate from other plants for one month or occasionally longer, to prevent cross-infection; once pests are found, they must be dealt with promptly.

2. Clean the plants:

Wash the plants with a hose or spray nozzle, which can remove many pests and dust on the leaves. During rinsing, the water flow should not be too strong, so as not to damage the branches and leaves. At the same time, prevent the plants from being scratched during the rinsing process.

3. Repot those that need repotting:

Some potted plants have roots that fill the pot with no room to spread; in this case they need repotting, otherwise repotting is not necessary. It is best to choose early spring for repotting. Also note that, depending on the situation, you should water thoroughly once before repotting, and repot only when the potting soil is moderately dry and moist.

4. Maintain air humidity:

Air that is too hot and dry is bad for potted plants, and at this time spider mites are relatively active. The following measures can be taken: (1) use a humidifier; (2) place plants moved indoors at the same time in the same spot; (3) place the plants on a tray filled with pebbles that are not submerged.

5. Do not prune:

Pruning potted plants in autumn and winter is not good for their entering dormancy. However, some dead branches and leaves can be removed; it is best not to prune before late winter.