As winter sets in and the temperature drops, most of us turn up the heat to stay warm. But while we’re cozying up inside, our indoor plants might be facing a real challenge. The dry air, combined with fluctuating temperatures from heaters, can stress out even the hardiest of houseplants. The key to keeping your green friends happy and healthy during the colder months is knowing how to adjust their environment.
Michael O'Brien, a landscape designer from West Hollywood, California, shares some practical advice for managing indoor plants in winter. “The main issue with winter heating—whether it’s from a radiator or central air—is that it dries out the air,” he explains. “Plants struggle if they’re not positioned correctly in such an environment.”
Many people instinctively place their plants near a heat source, hoping the warmth will benefit them. However, direct heat from radiators or space heaters can have the opposite effect, leaving your plants dry and vulnerable. To avoid this, O’Brien suggests moving your plants away from direct heat. If your home is heated by radiators, it's crucial to prevent your plants from getting scorched. “Keep them at a distance, and rotate them occasionally to ensure no side gets too much heat,” he advises.
If your home has central heating, which creates dry air, it might be worth investing in a humidifier. “A humidifier can help maintain moisture in the air, which is essential for plants,” O’Brien says. “Make sure to place it near your plants, but not directly blowing on them.” For smaller spaces with a radiator, a low-power humidifier can keep moisture levels in check without overwhelming your plants.
But humidifiers aren’t the only way to keep your plants happy during winter. O’Brien recommends spraying your plants’ leaves with water to provide extra moisture. “Misting is a great way to maintain humidity, especially for tropical plants that require a lot of moisture.” You can also add decorative stones or pebbles to the soil, which help retain moisture while adding a touch of style.
Different plants have different needs, so it’s important to know what works best for each one. Some plants, like the resilient snake plant, ZZ plant, and cast iron plant, can tolerate fluctuating temperatures better than others. On the other hand, tropical plants like ferns require higher humidity levels, and they should be kept away from heaters and dry air. If your plants start showing signs of stress—like yellowing leaves or crispy edges—it might be time to move them to a cooler spot or somewhere with more light.
Real-life examples from Europe and the U.S. show how adjusting the environment can help plants thrive. Take Mary, for instance, a plant lover from Los Angeles. Every winter, her ivy plants would start to wither and dry out. “I used to place them too close to the heater, and that always caused the leaves to dry up,” she recalls. After learning to rotate her plants and adding a small humidifier, the issue improved dramatically. “Now, my plants stay vibrant all through winter,” she says.
John, from London, also faced problems with his tropical plants in the dry winter months. “I have a few tropicals, and every year they seem to struggle in the cold. This winter, I bought a humidifier and placed it near my plants,” he shares. “It’s made a huge difference. My plants look much healthier now.”
Taking care of your indoor plants during winter doesn’t have to be complicated. By making a few adjustments—like moving plants away from direct heat, using a humidifier, or simply misting their leaves—you can create an environment where your plants will continue to thrive. The key is to monitor their condition and make small changes when needed. That way, when spring arrives, your plants will be healthier and more vibrant than ever.
In short, winter doesn’t have to be a death sentence for your indoor plants. With the right care and attention, your green friends can flourish even in the colder months. Just remember to watch for signs of stress and adjust their environment as needed. By doing so, you’ll ensure that your plants are ready to greet the first rays of spring with a fresh burst of life.