Introduction
Winter can be a challenging time for houseplants. With shorter days, lower light levels, and drier indoor air, your green companions may struggle to thrive during the colder months. But don’t worry—with a little extra care and attention, you can help your houseplants survive—and even flourish—through winter. In this 6-step houseplant winter survival guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to do to keep your plants healthy and happy until spring returns. Let’s get started!
Step 1: Adjust Watering Habits
One of the biggest mistakes plant owners make in winter is overwatering. Most houseplants enter a dormant phase during the colder months, meaning they grow more slowly and require less water.
1.1 Check Soil Moisture Before Watering
Stick your finger about an inch into the soil. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it’s still moist, wait a few more days.
1.2 Reduce Frequency
Plants typically need less water in winter because evaporation slows down, and their growth rate decreases. For example, a plant that needed watering once a week in summer might only need it every two weeks in winter.
1.3 Use Room-Temperature Water
Cold water can shock your plants’ roots. Always use lukewarm or room-temperature water to avoid stress.
Step 2: Increase Humidity Levels
Indoor heating systems can dry out the air, creating an inhospitable environment for tropical houseplants that crave humidity.
2.1 Use a Humidifier
A humidifier is the most effective way to maintain consistent humidity levels, especially for moisture-loving plants like ferns, calatheas, and peace lilies.
2.2 Create a Pebble Tray
Place a shallow tray filled with pebbles and water under your plant pots. Ensure the pot sits on top of the pebbles, not directly in the water, to prevent root rot.
2.3 Group Plants Together
Plants naturally release moisture through transpiration. Grouping them creates a mini-humidity bubble that benefits all nearby plants.
2.4 Mist Sparingly
While misting can provide temporary relief, it’s not a long-term solution. Over-misting can lead to fungal issues, so use this method sparingly.
Step 3: Optimize Light Exposure
Winter days are shorter, and natural light is weaker, which can leave your plants struggling to photosynthesize.
3.1 Move Plants Closer to Windows
Relocate your plants to brighter spots near south- or west-facing windows. Just ensure they’re not touching cold glass, which can damage leaves.
3.2 Clean Leaves Regularly
Dust buildup on leaves reduces their ability to absorb light. Wipe leaves gently with a damp cloth or rinse them under lukewarm water.
3.3 Supplement with Artificial Light
If your home lacks sufficient natural light, consider using grow lights. LED grow lights are energy-efficient and mimic sunlight effectively.
Step 4: Protect Against Temperature Fluctuations
Houseplants are sensitive to sudden changes in temperature, which are common in winter due to drafts and heating systems.
4.1 Avoid Drafty Areas
Keep plants away from doors, windows, and vents where cold drafts or hot blasts of air can stress them.
4.2 Maintain Stable Temperatures
Most houseplants prefer temperatures between 65°F and 75°F (18°C–24°C). Avoid exposing them to temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
4.3 Keep Them Away from Heat Sources
Radiators, fireplaces, and space heaters can dry out plants quickly. Place them at a safe distance to prevent overheating.
Step 5: Hold Off on Fertilizing
During winter, most houseplants slow down their growth and don’t require additional nutrients.
5.1 Skip Fertilizer Until Spring
Fertilizing dormant plants can lead to salt buildup in the soil, which may harm roots. Resume feeding in early spring when growth resumes.
5.2 Monitor for Signs of Stress
If your plant shows signs of active growth (e.g., new leaves), you can apply a diluted, balanced fertilizer sparingly—but only if absolutely necessary.
Step 6: Inspect for Pests
Dry indoor air and reduced plant vigor make houseplants more susceptible to pests like spider mites, mealybugs, and aphids during winter.
6.1 Check Regularly
Inspect your plants weekly for signs of infestations, such as webbing, sticky residue, or tiny insects.
6.2 Treat Infestations Promptly
For minor pest problems, wipe leaves with a damp cloth or spray them with insecticidal soap. For severe cases, isolate the affected plant and treat it thoroughly.
6.3 Prevent Future Issues
Boost humidity and keep leaves clean to deter pests. Healthy plants are less likely to fall victim to infestations.
Final Thoughts
With these six simple steps, you can ensure your houseplants survive—and even thrive—during the winter months. By adjusting your care routine to account for lower light, reduced watering needs, and drier air, you’ll set your plants up for success. Remember, winter is a time for patience and observation. Pay attention to your plants’ signals, and they’ll reward you with lush, vibrant growth come spring. Happy plant parenting!
Would you like me to refine or expand on any section?