Winter is hard on all of us

Winter can feel a little… rough. Shorter days, dry air, dark nights, and heaters blasting nonstop can make even the easiest plants look a little sad. The good news? Most winter plant problems are totally preventable with a few small adjustments.

Here’s how to keep your plants happy, healthy, and hanging on until spring.

1. Water Less Than You Think You Should

Most houseplants slow their growth in winter because they’re getting less light. Like us, plants go into dormancy during the winter. Slower growth = less water needed. Overwatering during winter is far more dangerous than underwatering.

What to do instead:

• Check the soil before watering—don’t rely on a schedule

• Let the top few inches dry out before watering

• When in doubt, wait a few more days

If your plant still feels heavy or the soil is damp, don’t water yet!

2. Watch Out for Cold Drafts and Heat Blasts

Plants hate temperature extremes just as much as we do.

Avoid placing plants:

• Right next to drafty windows or doors

• On cold windowsills overnight

• Directly above or beside heating vents or radiators

3. Humidity Matters More in Winter

Indoor air gets very dry in winter, especially once the heat turns on.

Easy ways to increase humidity:

• Group plants together

• Use a humidifier

• Place plants on a pebble tray with water

• Keep plants away from vents blowing hot, dry air

Curling leaves are often a sign that the plant is craving humidity. No, misting does not help!

4. Skip the Fertilizer (For Now)

Winter is not the time to push growth.

Most houseplants don’t need fertilizer from late fall through early spring. Feeding them while they’re resting can do more harm than good. As I mentioned, winter is a time of rest for plants, similar to us.

5. Expect Some Leaf Drop—and Don’t Panic

A little leaf loss in winter is normal. Plants are adjusting to lower light and different conditions.

What’s normal:

• Older leaves yellowing and dropping

• Slightly slower growth

What’s not:

• Mushy stems

• Strong odors from the soil

• Large amounts of sudden leaf loss

When in doubt, check the roots and soil moisture.

Winter plant care doesn’t have to be complicated. Water a little less, give them as much light as you can, protect them from temperature extremes, and be patient.

Your plants aren’t failing; they’re resting. And come spring, they’ll be ready to grow again.

If you ever feel unsure about what your plant needs, Ginger Root Plant Co. offers one-on-one houseplant coaching to help you feel confident year-round.