While outdoor gardens are dormant during the colder months, it’s an important time to adjust care for indoor plants. According to the experts at Down to Earth Living, issues like overwatering, low light, and dry indoor air, all adversely affect indoor plants. All familiar challenges for homes across Rockland, Bergen, and the Hudson Valley during the colder months.
“Most houseplants slow their growth significantly in winter,” said Stuart Leventhal, Owner, Down to Earth Living. “Simple changes to watering, light, and placement can help reduce stress and support plant health until spring.”
Key Indoor Plant Care Tips
Water Less
In the winter months, overwatering is a common issue, as most houseplants are not actively growing and require less moisture.
- Water only when the top inch or two of soil feels dry to the touch
- Empty saucers to prevent roots from sitting in excess water
- Succulents and cacti typically need water only every three to four weeks
- When in doubt, skip watering; too little is safer than too much in winter
Prioritize Light
Short days and low sun angles make light one of the biggest winter challenges.
- Move plants closer to windows, especially those facing south or west to maximize available light
- Rotate plants every couple of weeks to encourage even growth
- Consider using simple grow lights for light-loving plants, such as fiddle leaf figs, citrus, or herbs. Pale leaves, leggy growth, and leaf drop can signal insufficient light
Increase Humidity
Indoor heating systems significantly reduce humidity.
- Group plants together to create micro-humidity
- Use pebble trays with water kept below the pot base
- Place small humidifiers near tropical plants
- Keep plants away from radiators, vents, fireplaces, and drafty windows
- Plants such as calatheas, ferns, orchids, and peace lilies are especially sensitive to dry air
Pause Fertilizing
Most houseplants benefit from a winter break from feeding.
- Hold off on fertilizing until late February or March
- Fertilizing during dormancy can stress plant roots
- Exception: Plants actively growing under grow lights may continue to need fertilizer
Watch for Pests and Seasonal Leaf Drop
- Dry indoor air can lead to spider mites, fungus gnats, mealybugs, and scale
- Inspect plants weekly and isolate affected plants early
- Some leaf drop is normal in winter due to reduced light or temperature changes
- Dust leaves with a damp cloth to improve light absorption
Staying attentive to these simple adjustments helps ensure healthy, attractive houseplants all winter long.
Once Down to Earth Living opens again for the season March 10th, they will offer free on-site potting and re-potting services for customers purchasing houseplants or new containers for existing plants.
