Just as people need coats, hats, and gloves to protect them from the cold weather outside, houseplants need protection too. When the temperature inside your home drops below 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius), it’s time to take action to make sure your plants don’t freeze.
We often see houseplants as tough and indestructible, but they are actually quite delicate. Just a few degrees below their ideal temperature range can cause them stress, and prolonged exposure to cold temperatures can kill them.
In this blog post, we’ll tell how cold is too cold for houseplants. and also provide tips on how to keep your plants warm temperature in the winter months. Let’s get started!
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How Cold Is Too Cold For Houseplants?
Most houseplants and tropical houseplants prefer mild, humid conditions and will thrive when temperature ranges are between 65-75°F during the day and about 10 degrees cooler at night. However, there are a few hardy plants that can tolerate temperatures -up to 50°F.
If you’re not sure whether your plant falls into this category, it’s always best to place it on the side of caution and keep it in warmer temperatures. Below 50°F, enzymes in the plant start to slow down and become less active.
This can eventually lead to stunted growth, leaf drop, and even death. So when the indoor and outdoor temperatures start to dip, make sure your plants are protected from the cold.
The Symptoms Of Cold Temperatures Shocked Plants
Cold weather-shocked plants may exhibit several different symptoms, depending on the severity of the shock and the type of plant. One common symptom is drooping or wilting leaves, which can occur when the plant’s cells are damaged by the cold.
Another symptom is discoloration, which may be caused by the plant’s inability to produce chlorophyll in colder temperatures. The plant may also lose its leaves, fruits, or flowers. In extreme cold cases, the plant may die.
If you suspect that your plants have been shocked by cold weather, it is important to take action immediately. Remove any dead or damaged leaves or flowers, and move the plants to a warmer location if possible. With proper care, most plants will recover from cold weather shock.
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Health Benefits Of Indoor Plants
Indoor plants provide many health benefits that can improve your overall quality of life. by reducing stress, improving air quality, and supporting cognitive health, placing plants indoors can play a role in promoting environmental wellness.
Improve Air Quality
One of the most well-known benefits of indoor plants is their ability to improve air quality. In fact, NASA has conducted extensive research on the topic and has found that plants can reduce the levels of pollutants in the air.
Not only do they remove pollutants from the air, but they also produce oxygen, which is beneficial for human health.
Reduce Stress
Indoor plants can also help to reduce stress levels. A study published in HortScience found that individuals who spent time around plants had lower cortisol levels and higher satisfaction ratings than those who did not have any plants in their environment. Plants have a calming effect and can help to reduce stress in the home or office.
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Support Cognitive Health
cognitive health is another area where indoor plants can be beneficial. A study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that students who studied in a room with plants had better cognitive function scores than those who studied in a room without plants. The presence of plants appeared to improve attention span, task completion, and error recognition.
Overall, indoor plants provide a host of benefits that can improve your quality of life. They improve air quality, reduce stress levels, and support cognitive health. By promoting environmental wellness, indoor plants can play an important role in your overall health and well-being.
Improve Your Sense Of Well-Being
There are many reasons why plants improve your sense of well-being. One major reason is that they help to clean the air. Indoor plants can remove toxins from the air, such as benzene and trichloroethylene.
They can also reduce noise levels and create a more calming environment. In fact, one study found that hospital patients with plants in their rooms had shorter stays than those without plants.
Improve Environmental Wellness
Plants also play an important role in environmental wellness. They help to improve air quality, reduce water usage, and provide habitat for wildlife.
Additionally, plants can be used to manage stormwater runoff and mitigate the effects of climate change.
By incorporating plants into your home and workplace, you can help improve your environment in a number of ways.
Types Of Houseplants
House plants come in all shapes and sizes, and there is a perfect plant for every home. Different plants have different needs, so it’s important to do your research before bringing a plant into your house. Here is a breakdown of some common types of houseplants:
Blooming Plants
Most people are familiar with the classic house plant: a green, leafy plant that doesn’t bloom. While these plants are certainly beautiful in their own right, there’s something special about a plant that bursts into bloom indoors.
Not only do blooming houseplants add a pop of color to your home, but they can also fill the air with a pleasant fragrance. Whether you’re looking for a fragrant violet or a vibrant hibiscus, there’s sure to be a blooming houseplant that’s perfect for you.
Ferns
Ferns are a popular choice for houseplants because they’re easy to care for. They need bright, indirect light and regular watering.
Ficus Plants
Ficus plants are another popular choice because they come in so many different varieties. They need bright light and regular watering.
Monsteras
Monsteras are a type of philodendron that is becoming increasingly popular. They need medium light and regular watering.
Palms
Palms are a good choice for homes with limited space, as they don’t take up much room. They need bright light and infrequent watering.
Philodendrons
Philodendrons are a type of vine that can be either ground-growing or climbing. They need medium light and infrequent watering.
Succulents
Succulents are a good choice for people who forget to water their plants, as they can go for long periods of time without water. They need bright light and occasional watering.
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Final Thoughts
Houseplants are able to tolerate a range of temperatures, but there is a point at which they will start to suffer. In general, plants prefer cooler temperatures, but some can handle colder temperatures if they are acclimated slowly.
If the temperature drops below the plant’s ideal range, it may start to experience cold damage. This can manifest as discoloration, wilting, and even death.
Regardless of how cold is too cold for houseplants, it is important to know what temperature range each plant prefers and take steps to protect them when the weather turns cold.
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