Winter Watering & Low-Light Solutions for Houseplants

Winter can be a tricky time for houseplant lovers. Shorter days, cooler temperatures, and dry indoor air all mean your leafy friends need a little extra attention—but not always in the ways you might expect, If you and your plants are struggling read on.

Why Winter Changes Everything

As daylight hours shrink and temperatures drop, most houseplants slow their growth or go dormant. This means they need less water and can struggle with the lower light levels found in many homes during winter.

Winter Watering: Less Is More

The #1 mistake? Overwatering. In winter, your plants use less water because they’re not growing as quickly. Stick to these golden rules:

• Ditch the schedule: Don’t water on autopilot. Instead, check the soil moisture by sticking your finger 1–2 inches into the soil. Only water if it feels dry at that depth.

• Water thoroughly, but infrequently: When you do water, give enough so that it drains out the bottom of the pot. Always empty saucers to prevent root rot.

• Use room-temperature water: Cold water can shock roots, especially in winter.

• Watch for warning signs: Yellow leaves, mushy stems, or a sour smell mean you’re probably overwatering. Let the soil dry out before watering again.

• Succulents and cacti may only need watering every 3–4 weeks in winter, while tropical plants might need a drink every 10–14 days. Always check the soil first.

Low-Light Solutions: Helping Plants Thrive in the Gloom

Winter means less sunlight, and even the brightest rooms can feel gloomy. Here’s how to help your plants cope:

• Move plants closer to windows: South- or west-facing windows are best. Clean the glass to maximise light.

• Rotate your plants: Turn pots a quarter turn each week so all sides get some light.

• Consider grow lights: If your space is especially dim, a simple LED grow light can make a huge difference for sun-loving plants.

• Choose low-light champions: Some plants thrive in low light, including:

  • ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

  • Snake Plant (Sansevieria)

  • Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

  • Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)

  • Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)

  • Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)

  • Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)houseplant blog.docx

Bonus Tips for Winter Houseplant Care

• Boost humidity: Group plants together, use a pebble tray, or run a humidifier. Most houseplants prefer 40–50% humidity.

• Pause the fertiliser: Most plants don’t need feeding in winter. Wait until spring to resume.

• Keep temperatures steady: Avoid cold drafts and hot air from radiators. Most houseplants like 16–24°C (60–75°F).

• Clean the leaves: Dust blocks light and can attract pests. Wipe leaves gently with a damp cloth.

Winter doesn’t have to be a struggle for your houseplants. With a few simple adjustments—watering less, maximising light, and choosing the right plants for your space—you can keep your indoor jungle thriving until spring returns. Happy growing

If you have any questions please ask