When the weather gets colder, it's easy to think your indoor plants need more attention. In reality, most houseplants actually need less care during winter.
By making a few simple changes, you can keep your plants healthy until spring arrives.
1. Water Less Often
One of the biggest mistakes people make in winter is watering too frequently.
Because plants grow more slowly in colder months, they use much less water. Always check that the top few centimetres of soil are dry before watering again.
Tip: When in doubt, wait another day or two or simply purchase one of our water meters.
2. Give Your Plants More Light
Winter days are shorter, so your plants receive less sunlight.
Move them closer to a bright window, but avoid placing them against cold glass where frosty nights can damage the leaves.
If your home doesn't get much natural light, consider adding a grow light for a few hours each day.
3. Keep Plants Away from Heaters
Heaters and fireplaces make us comfortable—but they can quickly dry out indoor plants.
Hot, dry air causes brown leaf tips and stressed plants.
Try to keep plants away from heating vents, fireplaces and reverse-cycle air conditioners where possible.
4. Hold Off on Fertiliser
Most indoor plants slow their growth during winter.
Since they're not actively growing, they don't need as many nutrients.
It's usually best to wait until spring before returning to a regular fertilising routine.
5. Wipe Dust Off the Leaves
Dust builds up surprisingly quickly indoors.
A quick wipe with a damp cloth helps leaves absorb more light and keeps your plants looking fresh.
It's also a great opportunity to inspect for pests.
6. Watch for Common Winter Problems
Keep an eye out for:
- Yellow leaves (often caused by overwatering)
- Brown crispy edges (dry air)
- Soft stems (too much water)
- Tiny insects or webbing (indoor pests can still appear in winter)
Catching problems early makes them much easier to fix.
7. Choose Plants That Love Indoor Conditions
If you're just getting started, some of the easiest plants to grow through winter include:
- Devil's Ivy
- Snake Plant
- ZZ Plant
- Peace Lily
- Pothos
These are generally forgiving and ideal for Australian homes.
Need Help Choosing the Right Indoor Plant?
At Leafy Lovers, we're always happy to help you find the perfect plant for your home and lifestyle. Whether you're new to indoor plants or growing your collection, we can recommend easy-care options and share practical tips to help them thrive.
If you're in Melbourne's south-east, pop into our Patterson Lakes store—we'd love to help you find your next leafy companion