5 Easy To Grow Flowers This Winter

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During the growing season avid gardeners can become obsessive about caring for their beautiful flowers all season long. When the first cold snap comes, unfortunately that is the end to annual color and with cold temperatures lasting for five to six months in some parts of the country, it can be a very long wait for spring to arrive so they can get outside and begin spring plantings . But there is a great way to have cheap flowers indoors this winter: have an indoor flower garden. There are several plants that can produce flowers all winter long with minimal light and upkeep. Here is my list of seven great indoor blooming plants for this winter:

1. Miniature Roses

Miniature roses can be grown in small spaces (4-8 pots) and will bloom continuously if the conditions are good. They come in various sizes so select one that is small enough to fit in your space. They need 6-8 hours of sunlight; a south facing window would be best. They also need temperatures above 60 degrees, which usually isn't a problem indoors. Keeping the soil moist and the plant fertilized is important for continuous blooming. Clip the old blooms back to encourage new blooms.

2. Impatiens

These are one of the easiest plants to grow because they require little sunlight. In an outdoor setting, Impatiens can grow with indirect sunlight in average soil conditions so growing them indoors shouldn't be too much of a challenge. If you are transplanting your Impatiens from outdoors at the end of the season be sure to put them into a clean pot with fresh potting soil. Pick a spot where they can get several hours of indirect sunlight. Be careful not to over water as the stems will begin to weaken. Fertilize regularly to encourage blooming.

3. Hibiscus

Growing Hibiscus indoors is great if you have good sunlight. If you are bringing them from outside you may want to hose the stems and leaves down to remove dirt and insects. Also, remove any old blooms and trim back to within 6 of the main stems. Be careful not to over water as insects tend to live in moist soil. Let the pot dry out completely between waterings. There are several great varieties of hibiscus to choose from with lots of different colors and even double blooms. The key is finding a spot with good light.

4. Geraniums

Indoor Geraniums are great because they can tolerate full sun or a partially shaded environment. The more sun the better for flower production. Also, don't over water as this can lead to fungal growth with Geraniums. Geraniums store a lot of water in the stems so you can get away with letting them dry out in between waterings. Fertilize regularly for the best flower production.

5. Begonias

Grwowing Begonias indoors are great because they are well suited for the indirect lighting that most homes provide. Begonias do well in hanging baskets because of their trailers and usually being raised off of the ground provides some indirect light if placed near a window. Begonias need the soil to be moist but not soaked. Be sure and not let the soil get dried out between waterings as this can lead to stress on the plant. If you keep the dead flowers pinched off they will continue to bloom for months on end.

These are cheap flowers that provide great color all winter long in your indoor garden. Here are a few other indoor flowering plants to consider: African Violets, Christmas Cactus, Azaleas, Paperwhites (Tazetta narcissus)and Amaryllis. With a little planning and care you'll be able to get great enjoyment until it's time to get outside and plant that spring garden!