Houseplants That Thrive in Winter (Even With Low Light)

Winter may quiet the outdoor garden, but it’s the perfect season to bring greenery indoors. Shorter days and colder temperatures don’t have to mean a plant-free home. In fact, many houseplants not only tolerate winter conditions, they thrive in them, even with lower light levels.

At Marrazzo’s Garden Center, winter is a great time to focus on easy-care houseplants that keep homes feeling fresh, calm, and connected to nature until spring returns.

Why Some Houseplants Love Winter

Many popular houseplants originate from shaded environments where bright sunlight is limited. These plants are naturally adapted to indirect or low light and slower growth cycles, which makes winter an ideal time for them. During colder months, they typically require less watering and minimal maintenance.

Houseplants also help improve indoor air quality, add humidity to dry winter air, and brighten living spaces when outdoor color is scarce.

Easy-Care Houseplants for Low-Light Homes

These winter favorites perform especially well in homes with limited natural light.

Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
Extremely hardy and forgiving, snake plants tolerate low light, infrequent watering, and fluctuating indoor temperatures. Their upright form adds structure to any space.

ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
With glossy leaves and a relaxed growth habit, the ZZ plant thrives in low light and needs very little attention. Its thick roots store water, making it ideal for winter care.

Pothos
Pothos is a trailing plant that adapts easily to indirect or low light. It’s perfect for shelves, mantels, and hanging baskets and is great for beginners.

Peace Lily
Peace lilies prefer filtered light and cooler indoor temperatures. Their deep green foliage and occasional white blooms bring brightness and elegance to indoor spaces.

Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra)
True to its name, this plant is incredibly durable. It handles low light, dry air, and inconsistent watering with ease.

Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
A classic low-light houseplant with attractive patterned leaves. Chinese evergreens grow slowly and are well suited to winter indoor conditions.

Simple Winter Care Tips

During 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, and grouping plants together can help improve indoor humidity.


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 has very little natural light?
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 throughout the winter months. With the right plant choices and simple care, your home can stay green and inviting until the outdoor garden wakes up again in spring.

Visit Marrazzo’s Garden Center at 591 Durham Road in Newtown, PA, or call (215) 295-6662.
Winter Hours:
Wednesday–Friday: 10:00 AM–3:00 PM
Saturday: 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Sunday: 10:00 AM–3:00 PM

Our knowledgeable team is always happy to help you choose houseplants that thrive through winter and fit your space beautifully.

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