Aside from planting some winter annuals and surveying freeze damage, there’s not much keeping gardeners busy in the landscape right now.

Keep caring for houseplants! This is a great time of year to do some maintenance on them. There’s more required for keeping them happy than just proper light and receiving water.

For those with broad leaves, carefully wipe down the tops with a damp rag or paper towel. Be sure to change the cloth from plant to plant, to ensure no pests are carried over. Using a leaf shine spray isn’t necessary.

Rotate potted plants, especially if they’ve developed a slight lean towards the sun. Usually just a half-turn of the pot will do.

If many leaves are starting to yellow and the plant isn’t putting out new growth, it is time to repot. Overtime, the nutrients in the potting soil leach out with the water, plus roots start to circle inside the pot, so replant into a pot that is 1″ wider in diameter.

Cut away yellowing stems or leaves. They’re of no benefit to the plant.

Keep up with a houseplant fertilizer when the plants are actively growing. Follow label directions for timing of applications.

Water plants only if the top 1-2″ of soil is dry when you stick your finger in the pot. And remember to check those trays beneath them. Don’t let standing water remain there.

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