Winter Plant Care Tips: Keep Your Indoor Plants Thriving in Cold Weather

Winter can be a challenging time for indoor plants. As temperatures drop and daylight hours shorten, many houseplants struggle to maintain their health and vibrant appearance. Without the right adjustments, even the hardiest indoor greenery can suffer from cold damage, overwatering, or lack of light and humidity.

This feature explores practical, expert-backed steps that plant lovers can take to help their potted plants survive—and even thrive—through the winter months. From temperature control to the right pots, every detail matters. Plus, discover how partnering with trusted local brands like The Pot and Planter can make all the difference in creating a healthy, beautiful indoor garden. Be inspired with The Pot and Planter.

How to Keep Indoor Plants Thriving During Winter

Plants, like animals, require proper care to grow healthily year-round. Winter, however, brings unique challenges—dry air, limited sunlight, shorter days, and dropping temperatures all combine to hinder plant growth. These conditions can cause wilting, browning, or even the death of beloved houseplants.

Despite the season’s harshness, there are simple, effective steps plant owners can take to ensure their indoor greenery not only survives but thrives through winter.

4 Key Tips for Winter Plant Care

1. Shield Plants from the Cold
Indoor plants generally thrive in temperatures between 18–24°C during the day, and no lower than 10°C at night. In winter, indoor temperatures often fall below these levels, potentially causing stress or damage to plants.
To counter this:

Maintain a warm, stable indoor environment using a thermostat or heater.
Keep plants away from cold drafts near windows and doors.
Avoid placing plants near radiators, fireplaces, or heating vents, as direct hot air can also cause harm.

2. Reduce Watering
One of the most common winter plant care mistakes is overwatering. Because plant growth slows down in cooler months, they require less water. Excess moisture can lead to root rot, yellowing leaves, fungal growth, and pest infestations.
To avoid this:

Water only when the top 2–3 cm of soil feels dry.
Use room-temperature water to avoid shocking plant roots.
Pause on fertilizer until spring unless a specific plant has ongoing nutrient needs.

3. Maximize Light Exposure
With fewer daylight hours and lower sun intensity, indoor plants may not get enough light during winter.
To improve light access:

Move plants closer to well-insulated, sun-facing windows.
Rotate pots regularly to ensure even light distribution.
Clean dust from leaves and window panes to maximize light absorption.
Consider using full-spectrum grow lights for at least 12 hours per day if natural light is insufficient.

4. Increase Humidity
Winter air is dry—sometimes with humidity levels dropping as low as 10%, while most plants prefer 50–60%.
To raise indoor humidity levels:

Use a humidifier in rooms where plants are located.
Group plants together to create a more humid microenvironment.
Place plants in moisture-rich rooms like bathrooms or kitchens (provided there’s enough light).
Be cautious of over-humidifying, as this can attract pests such as fungus gnats.

Bonus Tip: Prune Regularly
Dead leaves and buds should be removed to prevent energy waste and potential mold growth. Pruning helps the plant focus its energy on healthy growth during the colder months.

Featured Partner: The Pot and Planter

Choosing the right container is just as important as proper plant care—especially during winter. That’s where The Pot and Planter comes in.

As South Africa’s premier manufacturer of lightweight indoor and outdoor pots, The Pot and Planter has been a trusted name in the industry for over 25 years. Locally made and 100% proudly South African, their products combine quality, durability, and design innovation to elevate any space.

Why The Pot and Planter Stands Out:

Unmatched Craftsmanship: Specializing in lightweight, durable pots suitable for both interior and exterior use.
National Reach: With distribution points in Johannesburg, KwaZulu-Natal, and Cape Town, their products are readily available across the country.
Serving Professionals and Hobbyists Alike: A preferred supplier for interior designers, landscapers, retailers, and home gardeners.
Superior Finishes: Each pot is meticulously crafted to meet the highest standards of quality and aesthetics.
Customer-Focused Service: Committed to providing personalized support and achieving outstanding customer satisfaction.

More than just pots, The Pot and Planter offers a way to bring spaces to life—whether it’s a small balcony, a lush backyard, or a large-scale design project.

To explore their full range and discover why they’ve been a trusted industry partner for decades, visit their site or contact their team directly.

The Pot and Planter—Creating beauty, one pot at a time.