Spring is finally here! Life and energy start to return to the outside world, and our plants inside feel that shift too. You may notice more growth, lighting changes, and temperature changes in the home.  It's important to check in with your plants as the seasons change to observe and adjust care to account for these shifts. This guide is your go-to spring checklist, helping you focus on exactly what your plants need to thrive in the season ahead.

1. Check the soil 

Spring is often the perfect time to repot your plants. While winter can slow growth due to reduced sunlight, the return of brighter days makes spring ideal for adjusting care and supporting fresh, healthy growth. Since every plant is different, it’s important to tailor your approach to your plant's specific needs.

Start by observing your plant. Is it putting out new leaves? If so, it’s entering an active growing phase—this is the best time to repot or adjust the soil, as plants recover more easily from the stress.

Next, check if your plant actually needs a larger pot. Signs include:

• Roots growing out of drainage holes

• The plant feels top-heavy or unstable

• A dense root ball with very little soil left

• Soil drying out faster than usual

(For a step-by-step guide, check out our “How to Repot” blog.)

If you’re not seeing these signs, your plant may not need a bigger pot—but it could still benefit from fresh soil. If it’s been over a year, or if the soil looks compacted or depleted, consider replacing the soil. Fresh soil helps restore nutrients and improves aeration, giving roots the environment they need to thrive.

And if your plant isn’t showing any of these signs? You can leave it as is. It's best not to fuss with a plant if they don't need it.

Get your soil and repot needs met at Scrims

2. Fertilizing 

Fertilizing is a great way to support your plant during its active growing phase. Fertilizing houseplants helps mimic the nutrients that most plants consume in the wild. This will encourage stronger roots, healthy foliage, and vibrant flowers (depending on the plant).

 It's important to note that fertilizing it is not a one-size-feeds-all. Different plants have different needs. Ensure the N(nitrogen), P(phosphorus), and K (potassium)  levels in your fertilizer are beneficial to the plant you have. For example, a flowering plant requires more potassium for those beautiful blooms. 

When you notice that there are signs of new growth on your plant, that's a sign your plant is actively using energy, which makes it the perfect time to begin the fertilization process. Follow the instructions on your specific fertilizer. If you are using a liquid fertilizer it should be diluted, and used only once or twice a month.

Be mindful not to over-fertilize; too many nutrients can harm your plant. It’s always better to start slowly and increase if needed. If your plant has been freshly repotted, wait about four weeks before fertilizing, since fresh soil already contains nutrients.

When in doubt, read the label and ease into a routine—your plant will let you know what works best. 

3. Monitor lighting 

With increased sunlight, some plants may react differently to their environment.

Keep an eye on where your plants are placed. If the sun feels too strong or you notice leaf burn (brown or crispy spots), try moving the plant a bit farther from the window.

4. Adjust watering

As sunlight increases, your plant’s watering needs may change.

Plants in brighter light photosynthesize more, which means they use more energy and dry out faster. You may need to water a bit more often—but always check the soil first.

Just because it’s sunnier doesn’t always mean the plant will be happier, so pay attention to how your plant responds.

Shop watering cans here

5. Pruning and propagation

Some plants that grow through winter may become leggy or produce smaller leaves. Pruning helps freshen them up and encourages fuller, bushier growth.

As a bonus, you can use the cuttings to propagate new plants.

Removing damaged or dead leaves also helps your plant focus its energy on healthy new growth.

6.  Check in with your plants

Spring is a time of change, and your plants are changing right along with it. Think of this as the season to reconnect with them a little more often. It’s also a great time to get into a simple routine—rotate your plants for even growth, wipe down dusty leaves so they can soak up more light, and give them a look over for any pests or damage. 

Conclusion

Spring is the season of new beginnings, and your plants are ready for it. With a few simple check-ins and adjustments, you can set them up for a healthy, thriving season ahead.