Spring is the most exciting time for houseplant parents! As days get longer and temperatures rise, your plants wake up from winter dormancy. Growth explodes, new leaves unfurl, and it's prime time for repotting, fertilizing, and refreshing your collection.
This checklist covers everything you need to do in March, April, and May (Northern Hemisphere—adjust if you're in the Southern!). Follow it step-by-step for healthier, happier plants all year.
Spring Houseplant Checklist
1. Assess and Repot (Early Spring – March)
Check for rootbound plants: Gently remove from pot—if roots are circling tightly, it's time.
Repot into a container 1–2 inches larger with fresh, well-draining soil.
Best for: Tropicals like pothos, philodendrons, monsteras, and peace lilies.
Skip succulents/cacti unless absolutely necessary (they prefer being snug).
2. Start Fertilizing (Mid-Spring – April onward)
Begin feeding once new growth appears.
Use a balanced, diluted houseplant fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10 or organic option) every 4–6 weeks.
Half-strength for beginners to avoid burn.
Stop if plant is stressed; resume when healthy.
3. Adjust Watering Routine
Increase frequency as light and growth ramp up—check soil weekly (top 1–2 inches dry = water).
Water thoroughly until it drains out the bottom.
Use room-temperature water to avoid shock.
Boost humidity: Mist leaves, use pebble trays, or group plants together.
4. Optimize Light and Placement
Gradually move plants to brighter spots if they stretched over winter (avoid direct harsh sun to prevent burn).
Rotate pots every 1–2 weeks for even growth.
Clean windows for maximum natural light.
Supplement with grow lights if your home is still dim.
5. Prune and Clean
Trim dead, yellow, or damaged leaves/stems with clean scissors.
Pinch back leggy growth to encourage bushiness.
Wipe dusty leaves with a damp cloth (helps photosynthesis!).
Remove spent flowers on blooming plants like peace lilies.
6. Pest Prevention and Monitoring
Inspect weekly for pests (spider mites, aphids, mealybugs love new growth).
Quarantine any new plants for 2 weeks.
Treat early: Shower off bugs, use neem oil, or insecticidal soap.
Improve air circulation to deter fungus gnats.
7. Propagation Time! (Late Spring – May)
Take cuttings from healthy stems (pothos, philodendrons, spider plants).
Root in water or soil for free new plants.
Divide overcrowded clumps during repotting.
Quick Reference Table: Spring Tasks by Month
Month | Key Tasks | Priority Plants | Common Pitfalls to Avoid |
|---|---|---|---|
March | Assess roots, repot, prune winter damage | Rootbound tropicals, ficus | Shocking plants with cold water/drafts |
April | Start fertilizing, increase watering/humidity | All actively growing | Over-fertilizing (burned tips) |
May | Propagate, pest checks, rotate for light | Trailers like pothos, spider plants | Sudden full sun exposure (leaf scorch) |
What's on your spring plant to-do list? Reply and share your progress—I'd love to hear (and might feature reader tips next!).