You may notice my growth slowing significantly, or even appearing to stop entirely. Do not be alarmed. This is my natural response to the shorter days and lower light levels of winter. My metabolic processes slow down to conserve energy. I am not dead, merely resting. Pushing for new growth during this time by over-fertilizing or overwatering will only cause me stress and potential harm. Please understand that this dormancy is a vital part of my annual cycle.
With my growth slowed and evaporation rates lower due to indoor heating, my water requirements drop substantially. The single greatest threat to my well-being in winter is overwatering. Soggy, cold soil will quickly lead to root rot, a serious condition that can be fatal. You must allow my soil to dry out much more thoroughly between waterings. Before you reach for that watering can, test the soil. Insert your finger two inches deep; if soil feels moist, wait. It is always better for me to be slightly too dry than too wet.
The sun is lower and weaker, and its hours are shorter. This is my biggest challenge. I crave bright, indirect light now more than ever. Please move me closer to a south or east-facing window to maximize my exposure to the limited available sunlight. Gently rotate my pot a quarter turn each week to ensure all my leaves get their share of light and I don't begin to lean excessively towards the window. If natural light is very poor in your home, consider providing me with a supplemental grow light for a few hours a day to help sustain my energy levels.
I am a tropical plant, and I dislike the cold. Please protect me from drafts emanating from leaky windows, exterior doors, and air vents. Sudden cold blasts can shock me, causing leaf damage and drop. Similarly, the dry air produced by your heating system is contrary to my preferred humid environment. This aridity can cause my beautiful, large leaves to develop crispy, brown edges. You can help by grouping me with other plants to create a more humid microclimate, placing my pot on a pebble tray filled with water (ensure the pot is not sitting in the water), or occasionally misting my leaves.
Since I am not actively growing, I have no need for fertilizer during the winter months. Applying fertilizer now will lead to a harmful buildup of salts in my soil, which can burn my sensitive roots. Please suspend all feeding until early spring when you see signs of new growth. As for grooming, you may notice a layer of dust settling on my leaves; this further blocks the precious little light I receive. Gently wipe my leaves with a damp, soft cloth to keep them clean and efficient at photosynthesis.
