Winter is a season that is challenging for plants. Unfortunately, the longer nights, lower temperatures, and dry air within the house can make it impossible for the houseplants to thrive. However, with a few careful moves, you could easily keep the green friends healthy and flourishing even in winter. Whether you have a Fiddle Leaf Fig, Pothos, Snake Plant, or Peace Lily, following these six steps will help them survive the winter months.

Find the Best Spot for Light

During winter, sunlight is minimal, so it's important to utilize what little light is available. On sunny winter days, open the curtains and pull the houseplants close to the windows to enjoy the limited light. The best windows to consider are south-facing, as they are the most lit during the day.

Grow lights would suffice for plants that need extra help. Supplemental lighting and bright indirect light are best for Fiddle Leaf Figs, Monstera, and Rubber Plants. Dust off leaves as dirt can block light absorption and limit the plant's ability to create energy through photosynthesis. 

Pro Tip: Rotate your plants every few days so all sides have equal exposure to sunlight.

Maintain Stable Temperature Conditions

House plants do not respond well to sudden temperatures. Keep your plants away from radiators, fireplaces, and open windows. Mostly, tropical plants prefer temperatures between 60-75 degrees Fahrenheit (16-24 degrees Celsius), like Pothos, Philodendrons, and Calatheas. Sudden temperature fluctuations can also be the reason for leaf drop, inhibition of growth, or, in extreme cases, the death of the plant. 

If space is limited and the plant must be placed near a heater, put it on a broader shelf or table so it will not be directly affected by hot air. Also, make sure to keep them away from strong, cold air drafts by closing all the gaps around windows and doors.

Pro Tip: Monitor room temperatures using a digital thermometer and maintain them at a stable level.

Reduce Watering

Overwatering is among the most common winter missteps. Plants do not require as much water because they slow down their growth rate during cold temperatures. Remember to test the moisture by placing your finger around an inch into the soil. If the soil is dry, add a little water; if it is still damp, wait a few more days. Succulents and cacti, like Jade plants and aloe vera, need even less water. Thus, watering them once a month is generally acceptable.

Pro Tip: Avoid cold-shocking roots by using the room temperature water.

Avoid using Fertilizer

Most houseplants enter a rest phase, meaning they don’t need extra nutrients during winter. Feeding them during this time can lead to weak, leggy growth. Wait until spring before resuming regular fertilization.

However, some plants, like orchids, may still need occasional feeding if they are blooming in winter. If you must fertilize, make sure you know how. Use a diluted, half-strength formula no more than once a month.

Pro Tip: Restart feeding in early spring when new growth becomes apparent.

Monitor for Pests

Uninvited pests are not only waiting for sunshine to intrude into your indoor garden. Spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, and scale insects are common houseplant pests. These tiny bugs are sometimes attracted to dry indoor places and can cause a great deal of havoc if left unattended.

Look under the leaves and around the stems regularly for your plants. If you see any queen or king, use a wet cloth to wipe the leaves and treat them for pest infestation with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Not allowing dead or yellowing leaves to accumulate tends to prevent the possible pest infestation.

Pro Tip: Spider mites hate humidity; misting your plants or using a humidifier will drive them away.

Repot Only When Necessary

Winter is not a good time to repot, except when your plant grew far more significant in its pot. If you see roots protruding from drainage holes or if the plant becomes incredibly rootbound, repot into a pot approximately two inches larger than the one it is in now.

For Snake plants, ZZ plants, and peace lilies, it is much better to wait until spring. Potting these indoors in the winter would have to be done very delicately to the roots of the plants and not overwater.

ProTip: Prepare the new soil with fresh, well-draining soil to help the plant adjust to its new conditions.

Final Thoughts

With reasonable care, your houseplants have the best possible chance of survival through winter. This includes adequate light, an attempt to keep temperatures as constant as possible, less watering, no fertilizing, inspection for bugs, and repotting only when it's time and in top condition.

Eureka Farms is here to support you and make sure that your indoor garden stays bright and shiny every day of the year. From selecting the best plant for your space to requiring guidance and expert advice, we've got you covered.

How to Purchase Plants from Eureka Farms?

Eureka Farms provides a wide selection of landscaping trees, fruit trees,palm trees, and various houseplants for customers. Our nursery features outdoor plants and topiary trees that can enhance the beauty of any outdoor space, from hardscapes to seating areas. With a reliable shipping service, we deliver freshly cultivated plants across the United States, ensuring they arrive in excellent condition. Explore Eureka Farms to find the perfect houseplants for your space. So stay warm, and keep your plants cozy this winter!