-Written by Therapeutic Horticulture Program Assistant, Kadence Baumgardner

As temperatures drop and daylight hours shorten, our beloved houseplants require a shift in care. Winter can be a tricky time for many plant parents, as inconsistent temperatures, reduced natural light, and dry indoor air can all impact plant health. Because plants receive less daylight during the winter months, moving them closer to bright windows or supplementing with grow lights can help provide the light they’re accustomed to during the growing season.

When I bring my plants indoors for winter, I like to quarantine them away from my other houseplants for about a week. This helps prevent the spread of pests that may be hiding on plants that have been outdoors. Pests such as spider mites, mealybugs, and scale can be difficult to spot at first, and quarantining new or returning plants gives you time to catch any issues before they spread to the rest of your collection. Quarantine can also help reduce the risk of fungal or bacterial diseases spreading through shared tools, air circulation, or splashing water.

While many houseplants struggle with winter conditions, some actually thrive this time of year. Plants like jade, spider plants, and kalanchoe marginata often enjoy cooler temperatures and may experience noticeable growth during winter. Tropical plants such as pothos and monsteras, however, tend to slow down because they prefer warmer temperatures and higher humidity. Winter can be an exciting season for rare blooms and bursts of growth in some plants, while for others it’s a natural period of dormancy and rest.

Winter is also a great time to reassess your watering habits. Most houseplants require less water during colder months because their growth slows and evaporation rates decrease. Overwatering is one of the most common winter plant care mistakes, so it’s important to allow plants to dry out between waterings. A simple rule of thumb is to check the soil with your finger. If the top inch feels dry, it’s usually safe to water. Ensuring excess water can drain freely from the pot helps prevent root rot and keeps plants healthy.

Temperature consistency is another key factor in winter plant care. Houseplants prefer stable conditions, so keeping them away from cold drafts, heating vents, and fireplaces is important. Sudden temperature changes can cause stress, leading to leaf drop or wilting. Winter is also a good time to monitor plants for pests like fungus gnats, which thrive indoors. Regularly inspecting leaves, especially the undersides, can help catch issues early. Wiping leaves to remove dust not only improves photosynthesis but also helps discourage pests.

Some leaf drop during winter is completely normal due to lower light levels and slower growth. Rotating plants occasionally can encourage balanced growth and prevent them from becoming lopsided. Checking that pots have proper drainage holes is equally important, as most houseplants prefer well-aerated soil and do not tolerate sitting in water.

Winter is a wonderful time to slow down, observe your plants, enjoy unexpected blooms, and look ahead to the growth of spring and summer. With a few thoughtful adjustments, your houseplants will remain healthy through the colder months and be ready to thrive when the growing season returns.

Kadence Baumgardner serves as the Therapeutic Horticulture Program Assistant at the N.C. Cooperative Extension, New Hanover County Center and Arboretum. She can be reached at kbaumgardner@nhcgov.com. The Arboretum grounds are open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and are located at 6206 Oleander Drive.