Winter Prep: Keeping Your Plants Happy as Temperatures Drop

Winter can be a challenging season for our green friends. With shorter days, drier air, and less light, even the hardiest of houseplants may start to feel the seasonal shift. However, with a few adjustments to your plant care routine, you can help your plants not just survive but thrive throughout winter. Here are some simple steps to make sure your indoor jungle stays happy and healthy until spring.

Adjust Lighting as the Sun Shifts 

As the days get shorter, light levels will decrease, and the position of sunlight streaming into your home will change. Rooms that were once bright and sunny during the summer may start to receive significantly less light in winter. Take note of where natural light is strongest in your home, and consider relocating some of your sun-loving plants closer to these windows to keep them happy.

If you notice that even your brightest spots aren’t providing enough light, consider investing in a grow light. Many plants will do fine in indirect or lower light during this time, but light-hungry plants like succulents and cacti will appreciate the extra boost.

Water Less Frequently 

In the winter, most houseplants enter a dormant or semi-dormant state, which means they won’t need as much water as they do during their active growing months. Overwatering during this period can easily lead to root rot—a risk that no plant parent wants to take!

To avoid overwatering, let the top inch or two of soil dry out before you water again, and always check that the soil truly needs it. Some plants, like succulents and cacti, may only need water once a month or even less in winter, while tropical plants will still need some moisture. Adjust your watering routine according to the specific needs of each plant and try to keep their roots comfortably dry rather than drenched.

Ease Up on Fertilizer

Winter is a time for rest, so skip the fertilizer! Feeding your plants in their dormant period can lead to nutrient buildup in the soil and stress the plant. Just like us after a big holiday meal, they need a break. Hold off on fertilizing until spring, when they’re ready to jump back into growth mode.

Hold Off on Repotting (Unless It’s an Emergency)

Winter is generally not the time to repot. Repotting can stress your plant, and it’s a shock that most plants don’t need when they’re already coping with the colder season. While it might seem like your plant needs a bigger pot, most plants can handle being slightly root-bound through winter without any issues.

Exceptions to this rule are pest infestations or signs of root rot—problems that can cause much more damage if left until spring. If you notice signs like mushy roots, a bad smell, or pests that won’t go away, repotting might be necessary to save the plant. But otherwise, hold tight until your plants wake up in spring.

Boost Humidity Levels

Indoor air tends to be much drier in winter, especially with heaters running. Many houseplants, particularly tropical ones, thrive in humid conditions and may struggle in dry air. Consider adding a humidifier near your plants to increase moisture in the air, or mist them lightly if they enjoy it. Grouping plants together can also help create a micro-humid environment, or you can place them on trays of water-filled pebbles to increase humidity around them.

Keep Away from Drafts and Heating Vents

Plants are sensitive to sudden temperature changes, so keep them away from drafty windows and doors where cold air could shock them. Similarly, don’t place them too close to heating vents, as hot air can dry out leaves and soil faster than your plant can keep up with. Find a location with stable, comfortable temperatures to help your plants adjust to winter indoors.

Extra Tips for Winter Plant Care:

• Dust Leaves: With less light available, you want to make sure your plants are getting every bit they can. Gently wipe down the leaves to clear any dust buildup that might interfere with photosynthesis.

• Rotate Plants Weekly: Turn your plants slightly every week so all sides receive equal light. This will help them maintain even growth and prevent leaning towards one side. (But keep in mind that many plants that grow up a moss pole, such as monsteras, like to stay put.)

• Be Patient: Your plant may not look as perky as it did in the summer, and that’s okay! Winter dormancy is a natural phase, and they’ll bounce back as the days start getting longer.

Conclusion: Cozy Up with Your Plants This Winter

Winter can be a little quieter in your indoor garden, but with the right care, your plants will be ready to thrive when spring returns. Remember to keep an eye on light levels, adjust your watering, and think about adding a bit of humidity if the air is dry. With these adjustments, you and your plants can enjoy a cozy, restful winter season together.