Caring for Your Houseplants Over Winter
Tips for a Healthy Hibernation
As the colder months settle in, you might notice some changes in your houseplants. Don’t worry — it’s natural! Many houseplants slow down or even go dormant over winter, meaning you’ll see less growth and maybe even a leaf drop here and there. Here’s how to care for your leafy friends during their “quiet season” so they’re ready to thrive again come spring.
1. Don’t Panic if Growth Slows Down
Houseplants react to the shorter days and lower light levels by slowing their growth or going dormant altogether. This is perfectly normal! You might not see new leaves sprouting, but that doesn’t mean your plant is unhappy. Think of this as their way of conserving energy — a little winter rest to gear up for the growing season ahead.
- Tip: Avoid fertilizing during winter dormancy. Fertilizer is like food for growth, and your plants don’t need it right now. Save it for spring!
2. Avoid Transplanting During Winter
Winter is not the ideal time for repotting or transplanting houseplants. Since their growth has slowed, they’re less equipped to handle the stress of being moved. Disturbing the roots during dormancy can shock the plant, leading to wilting or even root damage.
- Hold off until spring: Wait until the growing season, when your plant is actively producing new roots and leaves. That’s when they’ll bounce back quickly from a transplant.
- Emergency situations only: If you absolutely must transplant (like for root rot or a broken pot), be as gentle as possible with the roots and use fresh, well-draining soil.
3. Adjust Your Watering Schedule
With less growth happening, houseplants need less water. Overwatering is the biggest winter mistake — it can cause root rot, especially since soil takes longer to dry out in cooler conditions.
- How to water wisely: Check the top inch or two of soil with your finger. If it’s dry, it’s time to water. For most plants, this will mean cutting back to watering every couple of weeks instead of weekly.
- Be mindful of pots: Make sure your pots have drainage holes to avoid waterlogged roots.
4. Combat Dry Air Indoors
With the heat cranked up indoors, the air becomes drier, which can stress tropical houseplants that love humidity.
- Increase humidity: Group plants together to create a mini tropical zone or place a tray of water near your plants to add moisture to the air. You can also mist them occasionally or use a small humidifier nearby.
- Watch for crispy tips: If you see browning edges on leaves, it’s a sign your plant needs a bit more humidity.
5. Let the Light In
Shorter days mean less light, so it’s important to give your plants as much natural light as possible.
- Find the best spot: Move plants closer to windows, especially south- or west-facing ones. Just be mindful of cold drafts near glass and keep them away from heating vents.
- Rotate regularly: Turn your plants every few weeks so they get even light on all sides.
6. Temperature: Keep It Consistent
Most houseplants like a steady temperature — they’re not fans of big swings!
- Avoid extremes: Keep plants away from cold drafts (like doors or windows) and heat sources (like radiators or vents). Ideally, they prefer temperatures between 15-24°C (60-75°F).
7. Dust Off Those Leaves
Since growth slows, leaves tend to accumulate dust, which can block light. Give them a gentle wipe with a damp cloth to keep them clean and healthy.
Final Thoughts
Winter care for houseplants is all about finding balance: a little less water, a little more humidity, and lots of patience. Remember, slower growth or dormancy doesn’t mean your plants are suffering — it’s their way of adapting to the season. Avoid transplanting until spring, keep them cozy, and they’ll reward you with fresh growth when the warmer weather returns.
