Winter can be just as challenging for our houseplants as it is for us (especially here in Alberta). The days are shorter, and as temps plummet, our furnaces are constantly kicking on, making the air in our homes dry making it hard for our plants to retain their moisture. It also doesn’t help that when we open doors to come inside, we let in a pretty significant draft of much colder air than our plants are used to.
Houseplants tend to go “dormant” during these cold months, which means they are in a state where they slow their growth to survive any adverse conditions. But not to worry! During dormancy, your plants are actually focusing on strengthening their root system and conserving energy.
Here are some tips on how we can modify their levels of care to help keep you and your plant friends a little more comfortable over our winters.
Light: As light levels fall, expect your plants growth to be slow. During this time you will notice that some of your plants leaves will fall as well. This is nothing to worry about. Remember, they are focusing on their roots, so they WILL bounce back and awaken with new growth in the Spring. Follow the sun! You might want to consider re locating you plants in a sunnier location until spring. You might also want to consider investing in a grow light to help supplement those rays and provide some warmth, but it’s not necessary.
Water: As climatic conditions change with the seasons, so do the water needs. Because there is less light in the winter, most plants grow slower, so they will use less water than when they grow rapidly in spring and summer. But, when you add in the factor of furnaces drying out the air, they may dry out faster than you expect them to. It’s always best to underwater than overwater.
Humidity: Low levels of humidity can be the biggest hurdle. We can modify levels of humidity in our homes a few ways. If you have a humidifier, move the plants to a spot where they can enjoy its benefits. If you do not have one, you can cluster the plants in groups as plants release water through their leaves by transpiring. This way they can absorb moisture from each other. Bathrooms and kitchens are also a great spot for houseplants as these are typically rooms that get more humidity (showering/cooking). You may also place pebbles or stones in a tray of water and put your plant on top (make sure the plants aren’t sitting directly in the water as it will cause root rot).
TIP: Maintain a safe distance from vents, outside doors, and windows that you might open through the winter.
Here are five houseplants that are best suited for our homes during the winter months:
- SANSEVIERIA (Snake Plant) – Considered to be nearly indestructible and low maintenance. They aren’t fussy about lighting conditions for the most part and can handle lower light conditions than most houseplants. They also withstand less humidity and watering, making this plant the perfect houseplant during winter.
- ZAMIOCULCAS (ZZ Plant) – Another common houseplant that pairs well with a snake plant. It’s an extremely drought tolerant plant with beautiful waxy, shiny leaves so it always looks happy. It’s also a plant that can tolerate low levels of light. Everyone needs to own one of these beginner beauties.
- GOLDEN POTHOS – One of the most common plants out there! These guys do great throughout the winter as they don’t mind drying out and don’t require a lot of light. Very hardy, and you can trail them all over!
- SCHLUMBERGERA (Holiday Cactus) – Adding this one as it’s one of the only plants that will put on a show and bloom for you in the winter. The buds look like ornaments and the blooms resemble fluffy bells. They like to dry out and prefer protection from the suns direct rays, making this the perfect winter indoor plant
- CHINESE EVERGREEN – A great hardy plant that doesn’t mind low light and can handle some inconsistent watering as long as it doesn’t stay wet for extended periods. It will power through the winter and look fresh and green all season.
As we are about to spend a lot more time indoors, I hope this small guide helps. Don’t let the winter blues get to you. It is possible to create a green oasis of calmness right inside your home when the temps are less than pleasant. Love the plants you’re with and they will love you right back.
Ang Lutz is the owner of local tropical plant shop Sweet Joan. Co
