How to Care for Houseplants Over Winter: A Complete Care Guide

As the days get shorter and temperatures drop, taking care of your plants over winter requires a different approach than during the growing season. Many houseplants and outdoor varieties slow down in growth or go dormant, making it important to adjust your care routine. Below, we’ll go over essential tips for overwintering plants.

Last-Minute Repotting (If Needed) 

Before winter fully sets in, assess whether any of your plants need repotting. This should be done only if necessary, no later than the end of October. Most plants prefer not to be disturbed during their dormant period as it can cause unnecessary stress to their roots.

Common Signs Your Houseplants Need Repotting: 

• Root-bound plants: If you see lots of roots coming out of the drainage holes, it's a sign the plant needs a bigger pot.

•  Water pooling on top of the soil: This indicates the soil has become compacted, and hydrophobic and therefore may need refreshing to ensure their roots continue to function properly. 

•  Yellowing leaves or stunted growth: A plant may be stressed by lack of space, nutrients, or proper drainage causing leaves to drop. It’s important to consider fertilising first to see if the health of the plant improves.

If you decide repotting is necessary be sure to choose a pot slightly larger than the current one: A pot that’s 1-2 inches wider than the current pot will give roots enough room without shocking the plant. Use fresh, well-draining potting mix. Opt for soil appropriate for your plant type, whether it's cactus, succulent, or tropical houseplant soil. (Our complete range of GrowTropical’s houseplant soils should have you covered here!)

Note: If your plants look healthy and have sufficient space, wait until spring for repotting to avoid stressing them unnecessarily during their dormant season.

Cleaning and Dusting Plants 

As winter sets in, dust and debris can accumulate on plant leaves, which can interfere with their ability to photosynthesise as well as possible during shorter days.

We highly suggest using a damp cloth to wipe down large leaves with a soft, damp cloth to remove dust.

If you are able to, shower smaller plants: Place them in the shower and gently spray them with lukewarm water to wash away any grime or mineral build up. Just be sure to give the soil a good drain after.

Regular cleaning not only keeps plants looking vibrant but also prevents pests and ensures they can absorb maximum light during the darker months.

Reduce Watering 

One of the most important changes to make when overwintering plants is reducing the amount of water you give them. During winter, most plants enter a dormant period where their growth slows, and their water needs decrease.

How to Adjust Your Watering Routine: 

•  Check the soil before watering: Allow the top inch or two of soil to dry out before adding more water.

•  Water less frequently: Indoor humidity levels drop in winter, but plants don’t need as much water since they aren’t growing as quickly.

•  Watch for signs of overwatering: Yellowing leaves, soft stems, and mould on the soil surface are signs you’re giving too much water.

💡 Cacti and succulents need very little water over winter. Cut back significantly and only water when the soil is completely dry. Depending on the species this can be between once a month or once every six weeks.

Keep houseplants away from cold drafts

Cold drafts can cause plant stress and may even kill sensitive varieties. To protect your plants, position them away from cold windows, doors, and heating vents.

Look Out for Pests 

Winter might seem like a quiet time for pests, but indoor plants are still vulnerable to infestations like spider mites, aphids, or scale.

 How to Spot and Manage Pests: 

• Regularly inspect leaves. Check the undersides of leaves, stems, and even the soil surface for tiny insects or webs.

• Isolate affected plants. If you spot pests, move the plant away from others to prevent the infestation from spreading.

• Treat with natural remedies. A mild soap solution or neem oil spray can help eliminate pests without harming the plant.

Catching pest problems early is key to keeping your plants healthy over winter when their immune systems are more vulnerable.

Beware of Heat Sources 

While keeping plants (and yourself!) warm is important, not all heat sources are plant-friendly. Heaters and vents often dry out the air, which can lead to crispy, damaged leaves.

How to Protect Plants from Dry Air:

•  Move plants away from portable heaters or radiators: The hot, dry air can quickly dehydrate your plants, especially those that prefer higher humidity.
•  Monitor humidity levels: Many plants, especially tropical varieties, thrive in humidity levels around 40-60%. If the air in your home is too dry, consider adding a humidifier.
•  Create a humidity tray: Place a shallow tray filled with water and pebbles under your plant pots. As the water evaporates, it will increase humidity around your plants.

Expect slower growth during the winter 

During winter, it’s normal for plants to grow slower or even stop growing altogether. This is their natural way of conserving energy for the next growing season. Don’t panic if you see no new growth! The lack of new leaves or stems doesn’t mean your plant is unhealthy. Simply keep your plants healthy by following the other overwintering tips. Spring will bring renewed growth.

Patience is key here!

Consider Using Grow Lights

With reduced daylight hours, some plants may struggle to get enough light to thrive. If your home doesn’t get sufficient natural light, grow lights can be a game changer for keeping your plants healthy over winter.

Using grow lights can help keep your plants from getting leggy or pale as they stretch toward available light.

Shop Grow Lights at House of Kojo →  

Pause Feeding Your Houseplants 

Most plants don’t need to be fertilised during the winter months, as they aren’t in their active growth phase. Fertilising during dormancy can lead to salt buildup in the soil and stress the plant.

You should stop feeding your houseplants by late autumn. Once you notice growth slowing, hold off on any more fertilisers until early spring.

Preparing for Spring