winter Archives

Why Winter Birthdays Are the Best

Looking to make a birthday celebrated between December and March special? Whether your neck of the woods is set for a deep freeze or remains mild all year round, the winter season is a special time to gather together, get cozy with hot cocoa, and share some fun and games together — all fun things that make winter birthdays the best!

What makes a winter birthday special

Once you decide on a theme, sprinkle elements of it throughout the party. This makes your guests feel like they’re on some unique journey.

Emily-Rachael Atunrase

Owner of Empress Luxury Events LLC

Between all the holidays packed into the season, the messy weather, and the frigid temps, winter can, at first glance, seem like a hard time to celebrate a birthday. But, explains party planner Emily-Rachael Atunrase, it’s actually ideal. “My sister’s birthday is in the winter, and I was just telling her how lucky she is, because ’tis the season, right?” Atunrase says. “During the winter, we’re all used to traveling around, visiting friends and family, we’ve got the time off or we’re bored, and we’re looking for something fun to do. In winter, people are ready to party!”

As owner of Empress Luxury Events LLC in Philadelphia, Atunrase sees birthday parties happening both inside and out during the winter (weather dependent), with plenty of her clients transforming their homes into a winter wonderland. If you’re ready to sleigh some winter birthday party planning, read on for fun ideas that make the most of what the season has to offer.

How to make a winter birthday special

Embracing a winter birthday with a seasonal theme is a great way to go, Atunrase says. A themed birthday party — no matter the season — allows you to get creative and leave a lasting impression on your guests. “Once you decide on a theme, you can sprinkle elements of it throughout the party,” Atunrase says. “This makes your guests feel like they’re on some unique journey; it keeps them engaged and looking to see how many times you incorporated that theme around the food, the place setting, the decor.” Atunrase likes to set a birthday dinner table with a favor related to the theme, such as holiday ornaments or color-coordinated silver, blue, or white macarons.

winter birthday ideas with blue macarons — A take-home gift of icy blue macarons sets the tone for a frosty winter birthday.

She also suggests an indoor/outdoor option for home parties. “Think of how lovely it would be to walk through twinkling lights on a chilly evening to get to a firepit or bonfire, sit around with cute little inscribed mugs filled with piping hot cocoa, and then head inside when it’s time to eat.” With fire pits, outdoor heaters, and inflatable tents becoming increasingly accessible, we have many more outdoor options for winter birthday parties than we did just a few years ago.

That said, you don’t have to leave the warmth and comfort of home to have a memorable winter birthday — in fact, staying inside can be ideal. Atunrase recalls one client who booked an at-home massage for her husband’s birthday. While he relaxed upstairs, Atunrase went into action creating the party below. “By the time he came down from his massage, his whole family was waiting for him,” she says. “We brought in a hibachi chef, and then cleaned up at the end of the night.” That sure beats battling the crowds and cold to stock up on birthday party supplies.

But if you don’t want to hire a private chef to make the most of a winter birthday, there are still plenty of DIY ways to enjoy a chill-tastic winter birthday.

Kids winter birthday party ideas

These winter birthday party ideas will please the little ones while also providing entertainment for the adults.

Luau or beach party

If your crew is longing for summer fun, give everyone a respite from the cold by offering up a luau- or beach party-themed blowout. From serving fruity drinks and ice cream cone cake pops to putting out beach blankets and play sand, guests can fully indulge their summer vibes. You can even set up a station where kids can make leis with orchids (with adult supervision, of course). Ask guests to come dressed in Hawaiian shirts and beach gear, and you’ll all be transported to warmer climes.

Lumberjack jamboree

Gather together all the plaid you can find and invite guests to wear their best denim and flannel. Add in plenty of burlap and evergreen decorations, serve flapjacks, and have fun by renting a Velcro ax throwing game. Don’t forget to hand out faux burly beards for the perfect photo opp. There are even ways to make a fully plaid cake with just some extra red and black food coloring.

winter birthday ideas with kids christmas birthday party

A warm frozen birthday experience

Skip the heaps of soggy clothes while still indulging in snowman making and igloo sculpting. Faux indoor snow is easy to make; just mix a half cup of hair conditioner with three cups of baking soda. Then, repurpose a Christmas tree and cover it with the “snow” and artificial flocking, adding evergreen garland to it as well. Incorporate plenty of snow-themed items, from icicle lights to snow-white balloon arches, Atunrase suggests. Keep with the theme by serving treats like dipped strawberries that look like snowmen or offering a winter cooking decorating station.

Adult winter birthday party ideas

It’s not just the kids who get to have fun with a wintertime birthday. Adults have plenty of ways to celebrate their birthday during the snowy season as well.

Winter wonderland

Embrace the beauty of winter with an opulent evening display featuring plenty of icicle lights and repurposed holiday decor. Atunrase says serving hearty, lavish dishes, like the kind you see in holiday movies, will get everyone in the mood. “Instead of a fruit cup, serve fruit tarts, or cobblers straight from the oven. Incorporate all those delicious scents like cinnamon, nutmeg, cardamon. Instead of regular cheesecake, for the winter, we’re making persimmon fig goat cheesecake.” The winter definitely gives us a chance to get a little more fancy with our desserts.

Paint and sip party

Winter gives us time to be more creative with crafts, so bringing together pals for some winter-inspired painting is a perfect way to spend a birthday. And sure, you could organize your own event, but why not leave things to the experts at PaintNite? They offer both in-person and virtual painting parties with tens of thousands of designs from which to choose.

Cabin cozy

If the weather isn’t too harsh, embrace the outdoors for some campfire fun. Gather ’round the firepit with plaid blankets — or make it a BYOB, aka Bring Your Own Blanket, party — and individual s’mores boards with all the fixins. Or, opt to stay inside and set up an indulgent hot chocolate bar, with a variety of mix-ins and garnishes for your steaming cups of cocoa. One way to create the right atmosphere, Atunrase suggests, is to have everyone wear matching sweaters or pajama sets. Offer fun group activities like board games, card games, or a scavenger hunt.

Winter birthday gift ideas

winter wishes bouquet — Winter Wishes™ Bouquet

winter birthday ideas Ghirardelli All that Glitters Bin — Ghirardelli All that Glitters Bin

Top 8 Date Ideas for Winter

Learning something new on a date is always a good idea. It will encourage playing together, which is one of the best bonding activities for a couple.

lumAlia armstrong

Relationship expert

The winter months can be a hard time for couples to keep the spark lit. After all, dark days and drab weather do not lend themselves to dating inspiration. “As the days become shorter, it can feel like there’s less time to engage together,” says Lumalia Armstrong, a relationship expert and Couples Connection architect who helps couples rediscover their love for each other. “This creates a scarcity mindset, leaving couples feeling like they don’t have enough time and space for each other.”

Armstrong believes, however, that it’s possible to shift your thinking and turn winter’s downsides into positives for your relationship.

“Here’s what’s most important: Remind yourself that this time scarcity is a mindset,” she says. “The greatest gift of being human is our ability to shift our realities. Once a couple can recognize a perception that is hindering them from intimacy, such as less sunlight and time outside, they can then use their creativity to create a new dynamic and thrive in the winter.”

Below, Armstrong shares her best cold weather date ideas — both indoors and out — to help couples stay connected all season long.

Indoor cold weather date ideas

These ideas are best for when the weather is particularly nasty outside, or when you’d just prefer to take advantage of the coziness of home.

1. Try yoga

Exercising together is a surprisingly intimate experience. Armstrong suggests centering a date on yoga to encourage couples to build a bond that will grow throughout the evening.

“Take a couple’s restorative yoga class on the days you’re feeling extra exhausted,” she says. “Movement with your partner can help you feel in sync more biologically, especially if your love language is physical touch.

“Ultimately, it can help us enjoy deeper connections we all deeply crave. Even doing simple breathing exercises together can make for a really connecting date night at home.”

cold weather date ideas with virtual class

2. Take a virtual class together

Stretch yourselves as a couple this winter by tackling a new skill. “Learning something new on a date is always a good idea. It will encourage playing together, which is one of the best bonding activities for a couple,” Armstrong says.

You can learn without leaving the house by taking virtual instructional classes. Options abound, including flower arranging, succulent garden designing, and even gnocchi pasta making. Just purchase your ticket for your event of choice, and you’ll get all the necessary supplies shipped right to your home in time for date night. It’s a stress-free experience that will remind the two of you why you fell in love in the first place.

3. Stay in for movie night

Movies are a classic date activity for a reason — they create intimacy. “Watching a movie is a great way to connect physically with your partner without feeling pressure, ” Armstrong says. She suggests couples be extra intentional about sitting close together and setting aside time to discuss things afterward. “Share your insights and thoughts about what you’re watching. Let the movie become a point of connection instead of just spending a couple of hours ‘numbing out’ side by side.”

Keep things extra cozy with a custom couple’s throw blanket, and bring the movie theater experience home with you with an authentic assortment of candy and popcorn.

4. Have a happy hour at home

Weather outside too frightful to go out? Be your own bartender instead! “Use this as an opportunity to get creative together and have fun,” Armstong says. “Try mixing different cocktails together to see what combinations you can come up with, or take time to learn more about the wine you’re tasting. Playing together like this builds such a beautiful bond!”

cold weather date ideas with couple drinking mulled wine

If you’re feeling more adventurous, consider playing the long game and brewing your own beer or making your own mulled wine for date night. Your homemade drink should be ready to be enjoyed within a few weeks.

Outdoor cold weather date ideas

If you don’t mind the frosty conditions, or if you live somewhere where the winters don’t get too harsh, venture outside for these date night ideas.

5. Have a photo day

Forget the professional photoshoot this winter and have a DIY photo date instead. Armstrong recommends going someplace familiar — a favorite place in your city, an outdoor area you both enjoy visiting, even your backyard — to take pictures of each other.

“Use your joint creativity to find fun ways to document each other in these different places,” Armstrong says. “Really strive to capture the way you see the other person, how you find them beautiful and attractive.”

But the fun is only just beginning, Armstrong says. Get the photos developed and write love notes or your favorite silly poems on the back of the prints. Then randomly, over the next month, surprise each other with the photos planted in fun places, such as in lunches, on desks, in journals, or taped to mirrors.

“These little ways of creative connection will help you both feel loved and seen, and tap into a playful side of you that is full of the romance most couples really deeply desire,” Armstrong says.

Weeks later, you can put all the images in a photo book for a memorable keepsake.

6. Go sledding

cold weather date ideas with couple sledding

Weather permitting, here’s a cold weather date idea that lets you embrace your inner child. Bundle up and get ready for an adrenaline rush as you race down the hill together, or get a sled that’s big enough for both of you.

If you feel too old for hard plastic sleds, consider taking a more cushioned ride with an inflatable inner tube. They protect you against the worst of the bumps, and the elevation ensures you’re less likely to end up covered in snow. Some ski mountains also have snow tubing hills; if you live near one, check to see if this is an option.

Of course, all good sledding days should end with hot chocolate, so plan ahead by stocking up on some cute hot cocoa bombs that add to the cozy factor.

7. Check out the holiday lights

During the earlier stages of winter, Armstrong suggests couples take a trip around their community to take in the holiday light displays and decorations. “Turn this into a fun drive or walk around different areas of your town,” she explains. “See if you can find new creative ways to get there and take the long way around. Whatever you do, make a small adventure of it.”

If you choose to drive, make a custom playlist for the trip, Armstrong recommends. “Share music that you’ve forgotten about, bringing back some older music or new music you’ve discovered and can experience together.”

8. Explore a nature trail

It’s easy to go into hibernation mode in the winter, so Armstrong recommends moving your date to a natural space.

cold weather date ideas with couple walking through woods

“Getting out in nature is always helpful for us as humans,” she says. “So many studies have been done about the benefits of forest bathing, to help regulate us and keep us centered. It’s such a great way to bond as a couple.”

To get the most out of it, turn off your devices and spend time together being intentional about noticing the little things about your beautiful surroundings — and each other. You may find that a brisk walk in the woods reawakens you both to the initial attraction that made you start dating in the first place.

8 Winter Holidays Celebrated Around The World

The holiday season is in full swing! While the stores are packed with seasonal shoppers looking for the perfect gifts for Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanzaa, let’s not forget about the many other holidays celebrated around this religious time of year. Since we live in a multicultural society, it’s important to learn about different cultures and their traditions — after all, who doesn’t love more reasons to celebrate?

Here are eight other religious winter holidays celebrated all around the world.

Religious holidays

Bodhi Day

Observed by: Mahayana Buddhist Sects
Celebrated: Globally

Bodhi Day, also known as Rohatsu, celebrates the historical Buddha’s decisions and vow to sit under the Bodhi tree, until spiritual enlightenment was reached. To prepare for the holiday on Dec. 8, Buddhists decorate ficus trees with colored lights and strung beads, and hang three shiny ornaments to represent the three jewels: the Buddha, the Dharma, and the Sangha. Traditionally, on the day of this winter holiday, Buddhists practice meditation, and enjoy a meal of rice and milk, which represents the first meal offered to Buddha following his awakening.

Yule

winter holidays with Lit Gold Pillar Candles

Observed by: Wiccans and Neopagans
Celebrated: Globally

Wiccans and Neopagans celebrate the winter holiday of Yule, at the time of the winter solstice, around Dec. 21. The solstice is the point in the year when the earth is most inclined away from the sun, and Wiccans celebrate Yule to honor the winter-born king, symbolized by the rebirth of the sun. Many customs created around Yule are identified with Christmas today. Decorations for this winter holiday include holly, gold pillar candles, poinsettias and, of course, the yule log! Caroling, decorating the Yule tree, and exchanging presents are activities synonymous with Yule, and turkey, eggnog, cookies, and fruits are all enjoyed during this festival of the sun.

Mawlid al-Nabi

Observed by: Muslims
Celebrated: Globally

This religious holiday observed by Muslims celebrates the birthday of Muhammad, the founder of Islam. Mawlid translates to “birthday of a holy figure,” and al-Nabi means “prophet.” The day is celebrated on the 12th day of the month of Rabi I in the Islamic calendar, and is commemorated with recollections of Muhammad’s life and significance. Not all Muslims celebrate this day, however, as it is often associated with the Sufi strains of Islam. In regions that celebrate this holy holiday, decorations are placed all over the city, where tents are set up to hand out candy and sweets. During the festivities, devotional songs and poems are enjoyed, portraying Muhammad as a cosmic significance and creator.

Zarathosht Diso

Observed by: Zoroastrians
Celebrated: Globally

The Zoroastrian faith is one of the oldest faiths in the world, and followers of the religion mark Dec. 26 as one of their highest holy days. Unlike many holidays, Zarathosht Diso is actually a day of mourning and praying to Prophet Zarathustra, the founder of Zoroastrian. Large numbers of people visit the fire temples, offering prayers in remembrance of the holy prophet. Since the holiday is a solemn occasion, there are no elaborate celebrations on the day; instead, ceremonies are kept confined to either the temple or home of those honoring it.

Eid al-Fitr

Observed by: Muslims
Celebrated: Globally

Eid al-Fitr is an important Islamic celebration, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan for Muslims. During Ramadan, Muslims observe a strict fast from sunrise to sunset, and participate in charitable giving and peace-making. It is a time for spiritual renewal, and its completion is celebrated with a three-day joyous observation, called Eid al-Fitr, or “the Festival of Fast-Breaking.” The festival begins at the first sight of the new moon in the sky, and involves people dressing in their finest clothes, adorning their homes with lights and decorations, and handing out treats to children. Religious prayers are performed in mosques, where families donate items like rice, barley, and dates to those in need to ensure that they can also enjoy this holy celebration.

Las Posadas

Observed by: Catholics
Celebrated: Primarily in Mexico, spreading to some parts of Latin America and the Southwestern United States

Traditionally celebrated in Mexico for the past 400 years, Las Posadas is a Catholic Hispanic religious observance that takes place during the nine days leading up to Christmas, from Dec. 16 to 24. The term posada means “inn” or “shelter” in Spanish, and, in this tradition, honors Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem and their search for a place to stay. The celebration begins with a procession, in which candles are held and Christmas carols are sung. The procession makes its way each night to a different home, where observers begin the festivities with a prayer and end with a piñata party. Sweet and savory tamales, cinnamon-chocolate champurrado, and warm buñuelos are served, and bags filled with treats and candies are distributed as gifts to the guests for their celebratory “journey.”

Non-religious holidays

Ōmisoka

winter holidays with Shinto Shrines in Japan

Celebrated: In Japan

Ōmisoka, known as New Year’s Eve, is the second most important day in Japanese tradition, as it marks the final day of the old year. While it is celebrated on the same day as New Year’s Eve in North America, Dec. 31, the traditions differ slightly. To prepare for a new year and a clean slate, people purify their homes, removing last year’s clutter from top to bottom. A giant feast with friends and family is had, and then around 11 p.m. another meal of soba noodles is typically enjoyed. In the Japanese culture, it is believed that eating long noodles as the last meal of the year will give you a long life and help you cross from one year to the next. After eating, people typically go out to celebrate or stay home until it’s time to count down to midnight. However, this winter holiday isn’t all about enjoying a party; Omisoka is also considered a spiritual event for many Japanese people. At midnight, trips are taken to Shinto shrines. A drink made out of fermented rice called “amazake” is passed out as observers wait to hear the ringing of cast bells. These bells are struck once for each of the 108 earthly desires believed to cause human suffering.

Boxing Day

Celebrated: In Britain, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada

For the countries that celebrate it, Boxing Day takes place Dec. 26, the day after Christmas. This bank holiday originated in England, in the middle of the 19th century, under Queen Victoria. On Boxing Day, tradesmen would collect their Christmas boxes and gifts in return for goods or services throughout the year. Typically, gifts are exchanged, and the day is spent with friends and family at gatherings with lots of food. Leftovers from the day before, such as turkey, roasted potatoes, and all the trimmings, are enjoyed, and sports games are watched or played. Since charity is considered an important aspect of the holiday, many people take advantage of the sales and discounts at stores and shop for those who lack the means to purchase items for themselves.

10 Low-Maintenance Indoor Plants and Flowers

Indoor plants are a delight, bringing beauty and life to our homes. You can enjoy an indoor garden year-round, whether you are a seasoned plant parent or a newbie to the gardening world, with easygoing, adaptable houseplants.

Here are 10 low-maintenance indoor plants that are sure to please if you give them just basic care — and will allow you to go away for a week and forget about them.

Aglaonema

The shiny, pointed leaves of the aglaonema come in a rich array of color combinations and patterns, including green, silver, pink, red, and white. It is treasured for its beauty and easy care, and has become a popular houseplant that will brighten any décor.

In general, aglaonemas need bright, indirect light, but the light-colored varieties will need more sun than the darker-leaved ones and can be set closer to a bright window — but never in direct sun. They also will appreciate warmth and being away from cold drafts. A standard potting mix should do fine for these plants, as long as it’s well draining and will retain some moisture. Water them only when the soil is dry an inch down from the top, since aglaonemas like moist soil that is not overly wet.

Toxic to humans and pets? Yes.

Air plants

These cute little plants, with their scaly, gray-green, curving leaves, have exploded in popularity and are seen everywhere plants are sold. They are unusual in that they require no soil to grow. In the wild, air plants grow on trees, their small roots used only to anchor them to the branches. They grow in dappled sunlight and get their water from rainfall and humidity in the air.

Set your air plants in medium-to-bright indirect light and water them once a week by letting them sit upside down in water for about an hour. Shake them off and let them drain before putting them back on their stand. Misting daily will also help keep them in tip-top shape.

Toxic to humans and pets? No.

Aloe vera

Aloe vera is a great plant for beginning gardeners because it requires very little care and its gray-green leaves have a quiet appeal. It needs bright, indirect light; direct sunlight can burn its sensitive leaves. Standard potting soil mixed with sand and perlite will do the trick and allow water to drain easily. Water your aloe only when the entire potting mix is dry, and allow the water to drain completely out of the pot.

In addition to its beauty as a houseplant, aloe’s thick, fleshy leaves hold a gel-like sap that can be harvested to ease sunburn and minor cuts and scrapes.

Toxic to humans and pets? Yes.

Lucky bamboo

Lucky bamboo gets its name from the upbeat symbolism of this plant in the Chinese tradition. It is sold as individual straight stalks or several stalks together in various curls, twists, or braids. The number of stalks growing together in a pot have different meanings. For example, two stalks represent love, three stalks mean happiness, wealth, and long life, and six stalks symbolize wealth and good luck.

Lucky bamboo is a very easy plant to care for. It can either be grown in water or a well-draining potting mix. If it’s grown in water, it’s good to use either distilled or rainwater since lucky bamboo is sensitive to the mineral salts in most tap water. If grown in soil, it needs to be evenly moist. Water only when the soil is dry down an inch from the top.

Toxic to humans and pets? Humans, no; pets, yes.

Orchids

Elegant, exotic orchids speak of luxury and beauty, but they are actually low-maintenance indoor plants. Give orchids as much bright, indirect light as possible, being careful to avoid direct contact with the sun’s rays, which could burn their leaves and flowers. They grow best in warm environments with about 40% to 70% humidity. This is best achieved by placing them in a warm, sunny room with some humidity, such as a bathroom or kitchen, or with a pebble tray or humidifier that can give the humidity a boost. The best soil is a chunky potting mix that allows for air circulation around the roots and is specially formulated for orchids. Water your plant so that it runs through the pot and soaks the bark chunks, but don’t allow the roots to sit in water. Only water it again when the bark dries out.

Toxic to human and pets? No.

Peperomia

There are more than 1,000 species of peperomia in the peppercorn family — one of which, peperomia obtusifolia, or baby rubber plant, is the 2022 Plant of the Year — and many of them are popular as easy-care houseplants. Their thick, rubbery leaves come in a variety of delightful shapes, sizes, textures, and colors. In addition, some peperomias are trailing plants — plants that have long, trailing stems — and others are upright.

But in spite of their diverse looks, peperomias all need similar care. They thrive in bright to moderate indirect light, and average household temperatures and humidity. Peperomias are pretty forgiving plants, so it’s OK to water them only when their soil is dry.

Toxic to humans and pets? No.

Pothos

Beautiful, trailing pothos is a wonderful houseplant that can be grown successfully in most household environments. Its heart-shaped leaves display different amounts of variegation depending on the variety, and this will dictate how much indirect light it needs. The foliage with the most variegation of white, cream, or yellow will need brighter light, and, conversely, the greenest foliage will need the least light. Pro tip: Highly variegated pothos leaves will begin to revert to all green if they don’t get enough light. They will live happily in average household temperatures and humidity, and will need water when their soil is dry.

Toxic to humans and pets? Mildly.

Snake plant

The sword-like spires of the snake plant rising out of the soil make a bold statement in a room. Depending on the variety, the leaves can be striped, patterned, or solid colored, with shades of green, cream, or yellow. It is a favorite for home and office because of its hardiness, low-maintenance qualities, and striking appearance. It will grow in medium to low light and in average humidity, and it doesn’t like to be watered frequently. Only water your snake plant when the soil is dry, and make sure the water drains completely out of the pot since the roots are susceptible to fungal diseases.

Toxic to humans and pets? Yes.

Succulents

Succulents are arguably the easiest low-maintenance indoor plants to grow because of the minimum amount of care they require. They are not a single scientific group but rather encompass over 10,000 species of fleshy-leaved, drought-resistant plants native to dry, desert areas of all continents except Antarctica.

Succulents come in a wide variety of shapes, colors, and patterns, and some will flower readily indoors. They need three basic things to grow successfully: the right soil, plenty of sun, and infrequent watering. A light, well-draining potting mix is essential to these plants’ survival. A commercial succulent mix works well, and you can also make your own by mixing half a standard potting mix with sand and perlite. Some will tolerate direct sunshine, while others will grow in a variety of light levels, but all succulents will grow happily in very bright, indirect light with a minimal amount of water.

Toxic to humans and pets? Most are not, but kalanchoe and euphorbia are.

ZZ plant

The stiff stems and leathery, compound leaves of the ZZ give the impression of a tough, resilient plant that is almost indestructible. In this case, the first impression is the right one, as the ZZ plant thrives on neglect and can live in a variety of conditions. It will grow in low light as well as bright, indirect light, although it tends to get leggy if the light is too dim. It will tolerate year-round household temperatures and humidity levels, and only wants to be watered when its soil is completely dry. Be sure the water drains out of the pot after watering. The ZZ plant is sensitive to overwatering and will develop root rot if its roots are allowed to sit in water.

Toxic to humans and pets? Yes.

Can You Bring Outdoor Plants Inside to Survive the Winter?

Old Man Winter may soon show his icy face, but that doesn’t mean you have to put your green thumb to rest for several months. While not all outdoor plants will survive being transplanted and cared for indoors, many will!

bringing plants inside for winter with holly plant

While certain plants require more specialized instructions, this general guide will teach you how to move plants inside for the winter.

3 things to do before moving plants indoors

Unfortunately, moving plants indoors is not as simple as just picking them up and bringing them indoors. Moving plants indoors to a drastically different environment than they’re used to can result in them going into shock. That’s why it’s important to take certain precautions to protect both your beloved plants and home.

1. Get rid of any bugs

It’s important to clear any bugs off your plants’ leaves, especially if they’ve been sitting outside all summer. Aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites are some of the most common kinds of bugs that attach themselves to plants, so keep an eye out for those in particular. You should also check the soil, as there can be bugs hiding there as well.

2. Prune it

Pruning certain plants not only keeps them from dropping leaves on your floor but keeps your plant healthy — which it needs to be to survive a sudden change to its environment.

3. Repot it

When bringing a plant indoors, repot it in a container that’s roughly 2 inches larger than the one it was in previously. You should also make sure to repot it several weeks before you’re going to bring your plant in. This will ease its transition.

6 things to do while your plants are inside

If you’ve made it to this stage, congrats! The hardest part is over. Now all you have to do is keep your plants thriving. Here are six ways to help you do that.

1. Place them where they’ll thrive

While your rose plant may look beautiful catty cornered in your living room, that may not be the best place for it health-wise. Just like when you planted them outside, it’s important to think about your plant’s sun, shade, and water needs.

2. Gradually adjust the temperature

Most houseplants (and humans, for that matter) don’t like to live in temperatures lower than 45 degrees. That said, they also don’t like sweltering hot conditions. If you keep your house on the warmer side, lower the temperature when you first bring plants in and gradually raise the temperature by a couple of degrees every few days. Plants that are in full sun should be slowly moved to a more shady area so they get used to the eventual change indoors.

3. Move them inside at night

You can also acclimate plants to your home by bringing them inside at night. This will help them gradually get used to the changes in air quality, temperature, and humidity levels.

4. Water them less often

Because these plants won’t be sitting in the hot sun, they won’t need to be watered as often. A good rule of thumb is to water houseplants only when their soil is dry to the touch. You should also have a saucer under them to protect your floor and let you know once a plant has been adequately watered.

5. Give them indirect sunlight

We all know plants love light, but too much of a good thing can be harmful. Impurities in glass magnify the sun’s rays and can burn a plant’s leaves. For that reason, never leave a plant near a window.

6. Accept what can’t be moved

Some have to go dormant for the winter in order to maintain their health and, thus, cannot be brought inside. Rose bushes, hydrangeas, and lilies are just a few plants that should be left out in the elements.

Beautiful DIY Winter Centerpieces

Instead of bemoaning the cold winter with all the icy and bare branches, why not just celebrate the beauty of the season!

diy winter centerpieces with winter branch arrangement centerpiece

I think it’s magical when the bare tree branches become covered with ice during winter. You can easily create that same dramatic look in your home using birch branches and acrylic icicles. I filled the cylinder with a strand of clear lights and pinecones before inserting the branches, which gives this arrangement a more dramatic impact.

DIY fire and ice votive centerpiece

For this candle centerpiece, I first sprayed the outside of clear glass votive holders with spray adhesive and then dusted them with stardust glitter. I sprinkled faux snow on the glass top of a pastry stand and placed the candles in a line right down the middle. You can also create this centerpiece directly on the tabletop as opposed to having it raised on a stand.

For a little more sparkle, weave a strand of crystals around the candles. The flickering light of the candles reflected in the crystals is stunning. It’s so simple yet so elegant.

DIY glitter vases

Adhesive and glitter can do amazing things together!

diy winter centerpieces with Creating strip of glitter around a clear vase

Look how you can take a dollar-store glass vase to the next level with double-sided tape. White roses are always elegant, but pairing them with gold leaves and sparkly glitter makes an even bigger statement, don’t you think?

diy winter centerpieces with white roses in glitter vase

Try multiple thin bands or one large one. The process is the same — apply tape and add glitter!

DIY winter white tulip centerpiece

You really can’t go wrong with “winter white”!

diy winter centerpieces with winter white tulip arrangement for table

Believe it or not, tulip production starts now even though it is traditionally a spring flower. There is something so effortlessly elegant about white tulips. Set a winter table with white tulips and lots of crystal and silver accents for a guaranteed wow!

Take it up another notch by attaching chandelier crystals to the tulip stems.

diy winter centerpieces with white tulips with hanging crystals for stunning winter centerpiece

We’ll be bursting with color before you know it, but for now I’m just going with the winter flow.

10 Fun Facts About Winter

If asked, how many facts do you think you could rattle off about winter? Sure you can probably recall on which day the season approximately starts and ends, and maybe even impress by knowing some record low temps, but can you confidently say that you are aware of all there is to know? We’re getting into the spirit of the season by learning about this season — join us by taking a look at the following 10 winter facts.

Similar to how bears hibernate in the winter, trees experience a process known as “dormancy.” During this period, which begins when leaves are lost, there is a reduction in energy consumption, growth, and metabolism rates within each tree.

To protect themselves from snow, ice and freezing winter temperatures, some plants will keep their dead leaves and use them for insulation. Additionally, some will use excess snow as a blanket to help themselves withstand the cold.
Plants actually require exposure to cold winter temperatures in order to begin flowering again the following spring, a process is known as “vernalization.”
The pine, plum, and bamboo are often referred to as the “Three Friends of Winter,” considering that they all do relatively well during the season. For example, pines and bamboo will actually keep their green foliage even once temperatures drop.
No two snowflakes are created equal! Although they may look alike as they fall from the sky, the formation process that snowflakes go through causes each of them to have their own unique shape.

In the Northern Hemisphere, winter occurs when the Earth is closest to the sun, not the farthest! That said, the reason why we experience cold temperatures is because Earth is tilted away from it.
The Southern Hemisphere is known to have more mild winters than the Northern Hemisphere as a result of its climate and geography (less land is present).
The winter season officially begins on what is called the “winter solstice” and ends on what is called the “vernal equinox.”
The winter solstice happens at a very specific time and isn’t always consistent with the day on which it occurs. However, what is certain is that the solstice happens when the sun is shining the farthest to the south.
In the Northern Hemisphere, the winter solstice indicates the shortest day of the year. On the other hand, in the Southern Hemisphere, the longest day of the year is experienced at this point.

Top 10 Reasons Winter Is Awesome

If you talk to someone who lives in a warm climate year round, they may beg to differ when you suggest to them that winter is awesome. Snow? The cold? Really? Of course! Although temperatures drop in many parts of the world and the sun doesn’t shine for as long as it does during other times of the year, winter is a season we couldn’t live without.

Here are 10 reasons why.

1. The holidays

It’s the most wonderful time of the year — literally! Between Secret Santas, having eight nights of gift giving for Hanukkah, and ringing in the New Year, no other season is as filled with as much holiday cheer as this one!

2. Decor

Holiday decor, that is. Driving around town to view Christmas lights while listening to holiday music is one of the best parts of the season for sure. And, of course, there’s the actual process of decorating the tree. Do you usually get to put the star on top?

3. Hot chocolate

There’s nothing stopping you from drinking hot chocolate during the summer, but if you ask us, it just doesn’t taste as good when the weather doesn’t call for it. Whether you sip on it for its chocolatey goodness or hold it to keep your hands warm, hot chocolate is a season staple!

4. Snow

winter with Girls throwing snow in the air

While shoveling isn’t all that fun for the person responsible for the job, snow is one of the most beautiful aspects of winter — just look out your window during this year’s first major snowstorm and you’ll see what we’re talking about!

5. Snow sports

Speaking of snow, you can only participate in your favorite snow sports during the winter! After all, without this weather condition, your skis and snowboards wouldn’t get you too far. Additionally, although it doesn’t necessarily require snow to be on the ground (though having it makes it a bit more magical), ice skating is another winter sport that truly makes this one of the best times of the year.

6. Snowmen

And the activities relating to snow keep on coming! What’s better than spending a snow day (another reason why winter is awesome — the potential to get a free day off from school) building a snowman with your friends? You can even get more creative by building snow forts and igloos that can come in handy during a snowball fight.

7. Shopping

You never really need an excuse to go shopping, but if you do, winter activities will get the job done. Let’s face it, holiday shopping is a major part of the season, and there’s no rule that says you can’t do a bit of retail therapy for yourself when shopping for your friends and family!

8. Fuzzy socks

winter with Fuzzy Socks by the Fireplace

Nothing beats cuddling up by the fireplace with a pair of fuzzy socks on (and a hot chocolate in hand, of course). Especially as the holidays get closer, you can use this piece of clothing to celebrate by finding a pair that has your favorite holiday characters or symbols on them.

9. Candles

Sure, your home heating system will keep you warm, but when you want to get a bit more toasty, you can light one of your favorite holiday candles! It doesn’t matter if you’re partial to holiday garland, peppermint, or the classic balsam and cedar — all that matters is that your room will give off a seasonal scent, which only adds to its magic.

10. Easier beauty routines

Say goodbye to shaving every day and having to worry about makeup being ruined by the heat! Not to mention, you certainly don’t have to worry about the humidity ruining your hair.

Winter Plant Care Tips from Expert Jerry Rosalia

Caring for plants year round is important to ensure they live a long and prosperous life. During the cold months, winter plant care can be a bit more difficult. Below, I’ve provided some helpful winter plant care tips to get your green friends through the cold season.

dracaena-floor-plant-winter-care-101073z

Caring for large plants during winter months

Large house plants do well if you keep them clean. Do this by gently wiping their leaves of grime and dust. Doing this twice a year helps the plant grow and breathe.

While rinsing, be on guard for scale, mealybugs, and spider mites. Mealybugs look like little specks of cotton. If you still see mealybugs after rinsing, spray the plant with an insecticidal soap.

In cold climates, keep plants away from or against windows, and away from heat sources. Poinsettias like moist soil, but make sure to not over water and drown them.

Winter care for poinsettias

Poinsettias are on sale almost everywhere you shop during the holiday season. Before purchasing them, make sure you inspect them for white flies or eggs, as these can go airborne and infest other plants in your home.

The onset of winter means less daylight is available. During this time of year, most house plants are semi-dormant, so it’s important to cut down on the watering. It’s also best to not fertilize until early spring. Southern states may be a little different depending on how hot the temperatures are during the winter months.

If you liked this article, you may also be interested in some of our other Petal Talk articles from 1-800-Flowers.com expert Jerry Rosalia: