Annuals that have been growing indoors need bright light in the winter months to grow healthy, pest-free foliage and to set flower buds.

1. During the Winter months it is really important to routinely check potted annual cuttings for moisture. If your house is warm and dry, the potting mix may dry out more rapidly. Water when the growing mix feels dry to the touch.

2. Newly sown seed will need proper moisture to ensure good germination. Do not waterlog the growing mixture.

3. Cover the plant trays with plastic, but as soon as the seeds have germinated, remove the plastic cover to protect the seedlings from damping-off disease (caused by a pathogen in soil which is aggravated by keeping the growing mix too wet).

4. Once the seeds have germinated, remove the plastic cover. Water the growing mixture when it begins to dry out slightly or before seedlings begin to look droopy. Use a mister or watering can. It is better to slightly underwater, as the former reduces the onset of diseases.

TJs TIP: Remember to keep all of your potted plants away from heat vents so as not to dry up the soil too fast. Also, those with radiant heat, raise your plants off the floor.