Peperomia is a semi-succulent belonging to a large genus of perennial epiphytes whose native origin can be traced to the tropical and subtropical parts of the world. They tend to be highly adaptable to a varied range of harsh climates and situations. However, due to its tropical origins, it requires some special attention during winters to ensure that it stays strong and healthy. So, how do you care for a peperomia during winters?
Peperomia Winter Care
Peperomia plants remain dormant for the winter season as their growth rate slows down with a drop in the temperatures. The plant starts to become inactive, its leaves droop, and its needs decrease. Many beginners misunderstand this as a sign of stress and start providing excess water and fertilizer to save their beloved plant. Providing it with excess care may end up harming their health. So, some changes in the plant care routine help prevent such problems for your peperomia.
So, some of the factors which need to be taken care of during winter to ensure that your peperomia remains healthy are –
- Water
- Fertilizer
- Light
Water
While the peperomia indeed requires abundant water during summer, it is not so for the winter phase. During dormancy, as its growth slows, its need for water decreases too. It becomes sensitive during winter and providing it with excess water may cause the plant roots to drown and lead to the death of your peperomia.
Solution
During winter, it is best to cut down the frequency of the watering. Providing it with a minimal amount of water is sufficient to keep the plant alive. Usually, watering can be reduced to once or twice a month or whenever the topsoil starts to dry. Try watering only near the root system of the plant to ensure the good health of your plant.
Fertilizer
Fertilizers help boost the growth of your peperomia plant and are essential for it. A well-balanced NPK (Nitrogen, Phosphorous, Potassium) and iron supplement application once every two weeks during the growing season helps the plant grow well. However, the same dose may end up killing your peperomia during the winter season. Thus, it is important to understand the amount of fertilizer your peperomia needs.
Solution
While reducing the regular dose to half is sufficient for your peperomia during winters, you can also absolutely stop using fertilizers during this season. Since the plant barely grows during this phase, an absence of fertilizers will make little difference to your plant. Usually, fertilizing your peperomia once a month is sufficient during the winters.
Light
Light is vital for the survival of your peperomia. However, usually, peperomia doesn’t prefer bright, direct sunlight as it may lead to sunburns. However, during the winters, its requirement for light further reduces. So, it is more prone to damage such as sunburns during winters.
Solution
The requirement of the amount and intensity of light decreases during winters, but it doesn’t stop. So, it is best to place your peperomia in a location of partial light where it has access to bright, indirect light.
Thus, these are a few steps to ensure proper care for your peperomia plant.