Spring is the season of renewal, growth, and questionable life choices—like impulse-buying more plants than you have room for. As we spring forward with longer days and more sunlight, your houseplants are waking up from their winter hibernation (kind of like us before coffee) and getting ready to thrive.
Now is the perfect time to refresh, repot, and give your plants the TLC they deserve. Warmer temperatures and extra daylight signal a growth spurt, so adjusting watering, lighting, and care routines is key to keeping your leafy friends happy.
Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or just realized you should probably water that sad-looking pothos, these spring gardening tips will help your plants flourish all season long—no judgment for the ones you forgot about over winter!
Spring Forward: Adjust Light & Positioning
As we set our clocks forward and enjoy longer daylight hours, your plants will begin receiving more natural sunlight. However, that doesn’t always mean they’re getting the right amount or intensity of light. Here’s how to help them adjust:
• Gradually reintroduce plants to brighter light if they were moved away from windows during winter to prevent shock or sunburn.
• Rotate plants every few weeks to promote even growth—this is especially helpful for leggy plants that tend to lean toward the light.
• If your space still lacks natural light, consider supplementing with a full-spectrum grow light like the Aspect™ Pendant Grow Light to keep plants healthy and thriving. Even with longer days, some plants—especially those in low-light rooms or north-facing windows—may still need grow light support to maintain strong, consistent growth.
Refresh & Repot: Give Your Plants a Strong Start
As plants enter their active growing phase, they require nutrient-rich soil and space to expand their roots. Spring is the ideal time to repot or refresh soil, ensuring they have the best foundation for healthy root development and lush new foliage.
According to Nick Pileggi from @phillyfoliage, spring is the perfect time to repot or transplant plants that need it. Warmer temperatures, longer daylight hours, and increased plant metabolism make it easier for roots to establish themselves in fresh soil.
When to Repot Your Houseplants:
Not all plants need to be repotted every year, but some show clear signs that it’s time for an upgrade. Here’s what to look for:
• Roots growing out of drainage holes—a sign your plant has outgrown its pot.
• Stunted growth or yellowing leaves, even with proper watering and light.
• Water drains too quickly, indicating that the soil is depleted and no longer retaining nutrients.
If your plant isn’t displaying these signs but has been in the same pot for an extended period, refreshing the soil can still provide a boost of nutrients. Additionally, if your plants are in self-watering pots or terracotta planters, it’s important to check for mineral buildup and rinse out any residue before adding fresh soil or repotting.
Watering: Increase Gradually, Don’t Overdo It
As your plants wake up, their water needs will increase, but it’s important to adjust gradually to prevent overwatering.
• Monitor soil moisture before watering—most plants should be watered when the top 1-2 inches of soil feel dry. If you’re unsure how often to water, using a moisture meter can help determine your plant’s needs.
• Gradually increase watering, allowing plants to adjust to the seasonal change without overwhelming their roots.
• Make sure pots have proper drainage to prevent excess moisture buildup and root rot.
Fertilizing: Fuel Growth for the Season
Spring is when plants absorb nutrients faster, making it the perfect time to start fertilizing again.
• Use a balanced liquid fertilizer (10-10-10 or 20-20-20) every 4-6 weeks.
• For flowering plants, opt for a phosphorus-rich fertilizer to encourage blooming.
• Start with a diluted strength if your plant hasn’t been fertilized in a while to avoid shock. Organic options like worm castings or compost tea can provide a natural nutrient boost without synthetic chemicals.
Spring Cleaning: Prune, Dust, and Refresh
Spring isn’t just for home cleaning—your plants need a refresh, too! A little seasonal maintenance will help them absorb more light, grow stronger, and stay pest-free as they enter their active growing phase.
• Prune dead or yellowing leaves to encourage fresh, healthy growth.
• Wipe down leaves with a damp cloth to remove dust buildup, which can block light absorption and slow growth. Tip: Some plant owners attach microfiber cloths or damp towels to kitchen tongs for an easy and efficient way to clean!
• Give your plants a gentle shower to wash away lingering pests, dust, and mineral buildup, keeping their leaves fresh and healthy. Some plant enthusiasts we’ve worked with even bring their plants into the shower for a full “spa day” treatment, giving them a refreshing cleanse while mimicking natural rainfall.
Watch for Pests & Disease
As warmer temperatures and increased humidity return, pests like fungus gnats, spider mites, and aphids become more active. Spotting infestations early can prevent a widespread outbreak.
• Check both the tops and undersides of leaves for tiny bugs, webbing, or sticky residue.
• Treat infestations with neem oil, insecticidal soap, or sticky traps to control pests effectively.
• Isolate infected plants to prevent pests from spreading to healthy ones. I once made the mistake of bringing outdoor plants from my balcony inside, only to find tiny bugs and webbing quickly spreading to my other houseplants—a lesson learned the hard way!
For a deeper dive into common houseplant pests and how to treat them, check out our full guide: Common Houseplant Pests & How to Treat Them.
Final Thoughts: Spring Forward with Thriving Plants
Spring is the perfect time to refresh your indoor garden and set your plants up for a season of strong growth. By adjusting light exposure, repotting when needed, increasing watering gradually, and resuming fertilization, you’ll help your plants thrive in their most active season.
Looking to give your plants the best light possible? 🌿💡 Check out Soltech’s grow light collection to keep your houseplants healthy and happy all year long!
