The Plant Acclimation Period
By Maddy Hogan
Regardless if you are a first-time plant parent, or a seasoned green thumb, bringing a new plant home from the store comes with the responsibility of providing proper care, such as sunlight and water, but also the responsibility of allowing your plant to appropriately acclimate to its new environment. For indoor houseplants, we refer to this as the acclimation period and educate all our customers at Riza Plants that this period can take up to two (2) weeks once you bring your new plant home. Similar to us humans or pets when we are placed in a new environment, ‘repotted’ or moved homes, or the weather and lighting conditions change, we all require acclimation periods, and so go our little house plants. We are here to help get you through the acclimation period for your indoor plants, spot the warning signs, and also diagnose if something more serious is happening.
Where to Focus When Bringing a New Plant Home
Light: Observe the light conditions in your home and try to match them with the plant's requirements. Gradually introduce the new plant to its designated spot, allowing it to adjust to the intensity and duration of light. Avoid direct sunlight during this initial period to prevent stress or sunburn.
Temperature and Humidity: Plants, like humans, thrive within a specific temperature range. Before bringing a new plant home, ensure that your living space provides the right temperature and humidity levels. Avoid placing your plant near drafts, heaters, or air conditioning units, which can cause fluctuations and discomfort.
Watering: Get acquainted with your plant's watering needs, as different species have varied moisture requirements. Upon arrival, inspect the soil moisture level and adjust accordingly, making sure not to overwater. Gradually establish a watering routine, allowing the plant to adapt to its new watering schedule.
How to Tend to Your Plant After Repotting
Repotting is a fantastic opportunity to invigorate your plants, providing them with fresh soil, increased space, and improved drainage. To ensure a successful acclimation, follow these guidelines:
Timing: Choose the right time to repot your plant, ideally during the active growing season when the roots are most vigorous. Avoid repotting during the colder months or when the plant is flowering or in the midst of a growth spurt.
Preparation: Select an appropriate pot size that allows for future growth while avoiding excessive space. Choose a well-draining potting mix suitable for your plant's specific needs. Soak the potting mix before repotting to facilitate water absorption.
Transition: Gently remove the plant from its old container, being mindful of the roots. Carefully prune any damaged or overcrowded roots before placing the plant in its new home. After repotting, avoid direct sunlight and reduce watering temporarily to prevent overhydration during the acclimation period.
Moving a Plant to a New Environment or Location
Sometimes, relocating a plant within your home becomes necessary, whether for aesthetic reasons or to improve its growing conditions. Make the transition smooth with these steps:
Gradual Relocation: When moving a plant to a new environment or location, avoid sudden shifts. Begin by placing the plant in its desired spot for a few hours each day, gradually increasing the duration over a week or two. This helps the plant adapt to the new light conditions and temperature fluctuations.
Temperature and Humidity Changes: Monitor temperature and humidity levels in the new location to ensure they align with the plant's requirements. If necessary, use a humidifier or pebble tray to maintain optimal humidity. Remember, sudden changes in these factors can shock your plant, so be mindful and make adjustments gradually.
Vigilant Care: During the relocation process, closely monitor your plant's response to the new environment. Watch for signs of stress, such as wilting or yellowing leaves, and adjust your care regimen accordingly. Maintain consistency in watering, fertilizing, and any other specific care routines.
While these tips and tricks cover a majority of what your indoor houseplants may experience during the acclimation period, it definitely is not fully comprehensive. Our team at Riza is always happy to educate you on your new plants that you are purchasing in-store and will send you home with a care card that describes the regular lighting and watering requirements. If you are repotting or moving your plants, we can also recommend any packing tips, how to best approach the acclimation period based on type of plant, and warn you about what signs of distress would look like if your indoor houseplant is not responding to change well. Overall, plants are living species and are built for change and acclimation. With the proper overall care and preparation, you should have success in re-homing or moving your plants around!
