A Blog Of Common Mistakes When Caring For Plants In Ocala, Florida

Winter in Ocala, Florida, brings milder temperatures compared to northern states. Freezes are possible even though infrequent and rarely below 31°F but plants experience slower growth due to shorter days and cooler nights.

While Florida's winters are gentle, gardeners often apply summer habits year round, leading to problems. Here are some of the most common mistakes people make with plants during Ocala's winter season, along with tips to avoid them.

Overwatering Plants

One of the biggest pitfalls is sticking to a summer watering schedule. With cooler temperatures and reduced sunlight, most plants (including lawns, shrubs, and houseplants) slow growth and use far less water. Overwatering leads to root rot, fungal issues, and nutrient leaching.

In Central Florida, many gardeners keep irrigation running too frequently, sometimes daily, when plants need it only every 7–14 days (or less if rain occurs). For houseplants brought indoors, soggy soil is a frequent killer.

Fix it: Check soil moisture before watering, stick your finger 1–2 inches down; water only if dry. Adjust automatic systems to run sparingly, and turn them off during rainy periods. For outdoor plants, deep but infrequent watering is better.

Watering at the Wrong Time During Cold Snaps

Some people skip watering before a potential freeze, thinking dry soil is safer. Actually, moist soil retains and releases heat better overnight, helping protect roots. Dry, windy cold can desiccate plants.

Conversely, overwatering during or right after a freeze drowns already stressed roots.

Fix it: If a light freeze (around 30–40°F) is forecast, water plants thoroughly the day before to insulate roots. Avoid watering during or immediately after freezing temps.

Fertilizing Too Late or During Dormancy

Fertilizing in winter pushes new growth that's vulnerable to cold damage. Plants aren't actively growing much, so excess nutrients waste money and pollute waterways through runoff.

Florida guidelines (including from UF/IFAS) recommend pausing fertilizer in fall/winter for most landscapes.

Fix it: Save fertilizing for spring when growth resumes (typically March/April in Ocala). Use slow release options if needed, but less is more in cooler months.

Pruning Too Aggressively or at the Wrong Time

Heavy pruning in winter removes protective foliage and stimulates tender new shoots that could get zapped by a late cold snap. Many wait until the last frost risk passes (around mid-March in North/Central Florida).

Leaving dead looking tropicals or warm season grasses alone is often better they may brown but recover in spring.

Fix it: Limit pruning to light cleanup. Wait for warmer weather to prune hard. Keep lawns at recommended height for insulation against rare freezes.

Ignoring Cold Protection for Tender Plants

Even in Ocala, occasional dips to freezing can damage tropicals like hibiscus, crotons, or certain palms. People often wait too long to cover or move plants, or use improper materials like plastic that traps moisture and causes burn.

Fix it: Monitor forecasts. Cover sensitive plants with breathable fabric (sheets, blankets, or frost cloth) to the ground for an air pocket of warmth. Use Christmas lights (non-LED) under covers for mild heat. Mulch beds to insulate roots. Move potted plants to protected spots like patios or garages.

Placing Houseplants in Poor Winter Conditions

Many bring tender plants indoors but keep them near heaters (drying them out) or in low light spots, leading to leaf drop or weak growth. Overwatering indoors exacerbates issues.

Fix it: Position plants in bright, indirect light (south-facing windows). Reduce watering frequency. Mist occasionally if air is dry from heating. Avoid drafts or hot vents.

Not Mulching or Preparing Beds

Bare soil loses heat faster, stressing roots during cold nights.

Fix it: Add 2–3 inches of organic mulch around plants to retain soil warmth and moisture.

By avoiding these common errors, your plants will stay healthier through Ocala's mild but occasionally chilly winters and bounce back stronger in spring. Pay attention to local forecasts, cold snaps can surprise, and adjust care accordingly. Happy gardening, Ocala!

Many of you now Ocalans are from up north so if you want a spring refresh, Bella Design Landscapes is happy to help you transform your yard the Bella Way!