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Houseplants That Thrive in Winter (Even With Low Light)
Jan
When outdoor gardens are dormant and daylight hours are shorter, houseplants become the easiest way to keep your home feeling fresh, calm, and alive. The good news is that many houseplants don’t just survive winter conditions — they actually thrive in them, even in lower light.
At Sixteen Acres Garden Center, winter is the perfect time to focus on easy-care houseplants that fit real homes and real schedules.
Why Some Houseplants Love Winter
Many popular houseplants originate from shaded forest floors or tropical understories where bright sunlight is filtered. These plants are naturally adapted to indirect or low light and slower growth cycles, making winter an ideal season for them.
During winter, houseplants also tend to need less water and maintenance, which makes this a great time for beginners or anyone looking for low-effort greenery.
Easy-Care Houseplants for Low-Light Spaces
These winter favorites perform especially well when natural light is limited.
Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
One of the toughest houseplants available. Snake plants tolerate low light, irregular watering, and dry indoor air, making them ideal for winter.
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
With glossy leaves and thick roots that store water, the ZZ plant thrives in low light and requires very little attention.
Pothos
A versatile trailing plant that adapts well to indirect or low light. Pothos adds softness to shelves, bookcases, and hanging planters.
Peace Lily
Peace lilies prefer filtered light and cooler indoor temperatures. Their deep green foliage and occasional white blooms brighten winter interiors.
Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra)
True to its name, this plant is extremely resilient. It handles low light, dry air, and inconsistent watering with ease.
Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
A classic low-light houseplant with attractive patterned leaves. Slow-growing and forgiving, it’s well suited to winter conditions.
Simple Winter Care Tips
In winter, most houseplants slow their growth. Water less frequently, pause fertilizing until spring, and keep plants away from cold drafts and heating vents. Rotating plants occasionally helps ensure even light exposure during shorter days.
Grouping plants together can also help improve indoor humidity, which benefits both plants and people during winter.
Winter Houseplant FAQs
How often should I water houseplants in winter?
Most houseplants need less water during winter. Always check the soil and water only when the top inch feels dry.
Do houseplants need fertilizer in winter?
In most cases, no. Winter is a rest period, and fertilizing can resume in early spring.
What if my home doesn’t get much sunlight?
Many houseplants thrive in low or indirect light, including snake plants, ZZ plants, pothos, and Chinese evergreens.
Should I mist houseplants during winter?
Misting can help slightly, but grouping plants together or using a humidifier is often more effective.
Why are my houseplant leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves are commonly caused by overwatering or poor drainage, which is more likely in winter when plants use less water.
Keep Your Home Green All Winter
Houseplants are an easy and rewarding way to stay connected to gardening while the outdoor landscape rests. With the right plant choices and simple care, your home can stay green, cozy, and inviting all winter long.
Visit Sixteen Acres Garden Center at 1359 Wilbraham Road in Springfield, MA, or call (413) 783-5883.
Winter Hours:
Monday–Saturday: 8:00 AM–5:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Our knowledgeable team is always happy to help you choose houseplants that thrive through winter and fit your space beautifully 🌿
