As the days get longer and brighter, your houseplants are waking up. After a sleepy winter of slow growth and low light, spring brings a fresh burst of energy, and it's the perfect time to give your indoor plants a little seasonal TLC.

Here’s how to help them shift into growth mode without overwhelming them (or yourself):

1. Repot if needed, but not always

Not every plant needs a bigger home, but many do by the time spring rolls around. If you notice roots circling the bottom of the pot, water running straight through, or your plant looking a little top-heavy, it’s probably time.

Choose a pot that’s just one size larger (no need to go jumbo), and refresh the soil while you’re at it. For tropical houseplants, a light, well-draining mix with perlite or orchid bark works well. Cacti and succulents prefer a sandier blend.

Not sure if your plant needs repotting? Gently lift it from the pot and take a peek—if the roots are thick, tightly packed, or pushing out of the drainage holes, it’s time.

2. Adjust your watering routine

During winter, most plants slow down and need less water. But as sunlight increases, so does growth, and that means thirstier roots.

Start checking your soil more often, especially for sun-loving plants like fiddle leaf figs, monsteras, and pothos. Use the finger test: if the top inch or two of soil is dry, it’s probably time to water. Just remember, more sun doesn’t mean soaked soil. Good drainage is still key.

3. Rethink lighting

If you moved your plants away from chilly windows for winter, it might be time to return them to brighter spots. Longer days mean more natural light, and your plants will love it.

East- and south-facing windows are great for bright, indirect light, which suits most common houseplants. For lower-light lovers like snake plants or ZZs, a north window or shaded corner is still fine, they just might grow a bit faster now.

If you’ve been using grow lights, consider reducing hours or intensity slightly as natural light increases.

4. Feed for the season

From spring through early fall, your plants enter their active growing period and will benefit from a bit of extra nutrition.

Start fertilizing once a month with a gentle, balanced houseplant fertilizer. You can dilute it to half strength if you’re unsure, more frequent, low-dose feeding often works better than the occasional heavy dose.

Skip the fertilizer if you’ve just repotted with fresh soil (which usually provides nutrients for 4 to 6 weeks), and hold off feeding any plants that still look stressed or are recovering.

5. Consider outdoor time carefully

Some houseplants love a bit of fresh air in summer, especially tropicals like monstera, ficus, and palms. But be cautious: Calgary nights can still be chilly in May, and sudden exposure to sun or wind can shock your plant.

If you’re planning to harden them off for a summer vacation outdoors, wait until nighttime temperatures consistently stay above 10°C. Start slow, just a few hours in filtered shade, gradually increasing time and light exposure.

And always check for pests before bringing them back inside.

6. Prune and clean

Now’s the time to cut back leggy stems, remove yellow or crispy leaves, and shape your plants for healthier growth. A quick wipe-down of dusty leaves also helps your plants photosynthesize more efficiently and keeps them looking fresh.

Use clean, sharp scissors and don’t be afraid to snip. Most houseplants respond well to a light haircut.

In short, Spring is for growing

Your indoor plants are just as ready for a refresh as you are this spring. With a few simple seasonal shifts - brighter light, a bit more water, and maybe a new pot or two - you’ll set them up for a season of healthy, happy growth.

Need help choosing soil, pots, or plant-safe fertilizer? Drop by Bloom Culture or book a consult—we’re always happy to chat plants.