If your houseplants look lethargic, aren't growing, or are losing leaves at the end of winter, it's not because they're sick, they're just waiting for a sign of spring. Already in February, you can gently prepare them for the new growth season, without waiting for March and the first rays of the sun. And it’s better to do this not with chemicals, but with simple, proven products from the kitchen and pantry.
Adding nutrients in February helps roots wake up earlier, strengthens the immune system, and lays the foundation for abundant blooms or lush greenery.
What is useful to add to pots in February:
- Banana peel, dried or in the form of an infusion, is rich in potassium, which strengthens the stems and promotes flowering. You can chop the dried peel and lightly sprinkle the surface of the soil or water it with infusion.
- Eggshells are a source of calcium. Wash, dry, grind into powder and add 1 tsp. into each pot while loosening. This strengthens the cell walls and prevents leaf deformation.
- Wood ash – contains potassium, phosphorus and trace elements. Add a pinch (no more than 1/2 teaspoon per 1 liter of soil) when replanting or surface loosening. Especially useful for pelargoniums, fuchsias and citruses.
- Humus infusion is a soft organic substance for general tone. Brew 2 tbsp. l. humus in 1 liter of water, leave for 12 hours, strain and pour. Suitable even for ficus and dracaenas.
What to avoid in February:
- Fresh organic waste (coffee grounds, undried tea bags) can cause mold or souring of the soil.
- Concentrated mineral fertilizers. The roots are not yet ready for active feeding, and a burn can be caused.
- Abundant watering. While daylight hours are short, plants consume little water. It is better to water rarely, but with warm water.
This approach is especially effective for flowering plants, citrus fruits and decorative foliage crops. By the end of February, you will notice how new shoots appear, the leaves become denser, and the buds appear earlier.
