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HydrangeasA home conservatory is a corner where plants get the light, warmth and humidity they need all year round. You do not need a separate extension: an insulated loggia, a bay window or a shelving unit by a bright window will do. Here is where to create an indoor winter garden, how to give plants the right conditions and which species to choose.
Plants for a winter garden are in our potted plants section.
Where to set it up
- An insulated loggia or balcony gets the most light; make sure it does not get colder in winter than your plants can take.
- A bay or large window is a good spot for shelving or a group of plants in planters.
- A mini greenhouse — shelving with a clear cover or a glass cabinet — suits seedlings, orchids and humidity lovers.
What conditions plants need
The main winter problems are lack of light and dry air from heating. LED grow lights extend the day length, and a humidifier or trays of wet pebbles raise humidity around the plants. Ventilate the room, but keep plants out of draughts.
Which plants to choose
- Tropical foliage plants — monstera, philodendrons, calatheas, ferns: they like warmth and humidity.
- Citrus — lemon, mandarin, calamondin: bright light, and cool conditions in winter.
- Flowering plants — phalaenopsis orchids, anthurium, hibiscus.
- Mediterranean herbs — rosemary, bay, thyme: sun and a cool winter rest.
Read how to grow rosemary in a pot, and find inspiration in the most beautiful greenhouses in the world.
Care
- Group plants by their needs: moisture lovers together, drought-tolerant ones apart.
- Water according to the soil, not a schedule: most plants need less water in winter.
- Check leaves for pests regularly — spider mites multiply quickly in warm, dry air.
- Turn pots towards the light so plants grow evenly.
FAQ
Do I need grow lights with a south-facing window?
Usually not in summer, but from November to February extra light makes a visible difference to most plants.
Can I have a conservatory on an unheated balcony?
Only for cool-tolerant plants and only if the balcony does not freeze. Tropical species need at least 18 °C.
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Author: Maria Svitlovir
Graduated from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Institute of Biology and Medicine (2001). BSc in Biology, MSc in Horticulture. Writes about plants, works at a garden centre selecting and repotting plants, and contributes to plant reference guides.
