Winter Houseplant Care: Keeping Plants Alive Through the Cold Months
Winter is when most houseplants struggle. Less light, dry heating air, and cold draughts are the main culprits. Here's how to adapt your care routine.
Winter is the hardest season for houseplants. Light drops dramatically, central heating dries the air, and cold windows create chilly microclimates.
Reduce Watering
Most houseplants slow or stop growing in winter. Their water needs drop by 30–50%. Check soil before every water — many plants will go 2–3 weeks between waterings in winter.
Maximise Light
Move plants closer to windows. Clean dusty leaves with a damp cloth — dust blocks light absorption. Consider a simple LED grow light on a timer for the darkest months.
Watch for Cold Draughts
Keep plants away from single-glazed windows (surfaces can drop below 10°C) and away from exterior doors. Cold air can shock tropical plants and cause sudden leaf drop.
Stop Feeding
Fertilizer applied to a resting plant sits in the soil and burns roots. Don't feed from October to February.
Heating and Humidity
Central heating dries air significantly. Group plants together, or run a small humidifier nearby. Avoid placing plants directly above radiators.
