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Winter is coming, and it’s time to get our indoor gardens ready. Living in New Jersey, I’ve seen how cold weather can hurt plants, even inside.
I love making my home green all year. In winter, it’s not just about keeping plants alive. It’s also about finding ones that do well in low light and dry air.
When the weather gets colder outside I tend to focus on taking care of my garden often.
Here’s an interesting fact, studies have revealed that having indoor plants can enhance your mood by as much, as 40% in the winter season.
Having cultivated types of plants such as herbs and microgreens indoors for over seven years now, I am eager to introduce you to some of my preferred plants that thrive well during the winter months
The benefits of Indoor Plants during Winter?
Indoor plants are more than just decorations—they offer many benefits in winter. Here’s why they’re essential:
– Air Purification: We keep our windows closed in winter to stay warm. This can make the air inside stale. Plants like the Spider Plant and Peace Lily help clean the air, removing toxins and improving quality.
– Boosts Mood: Winter can be dark and gloomy. Studies show that greenery can lift your mood and reduce stress. This makes your home feel warmer and more welcoming.
– Humidity Regulation: Heaters and indoor heating systems dry out the air. Plants release moisture, helping to keep the air comfortable.
Top 16 Best Indoor Plants for the Winter Season
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
I have three in my home office. They thrive in almost any light condition and can go weeks without water. During winter, I only water mine once every 3-4 weeks.
You need to check the soil moisture before watering. It tolerates low light and doesn’t need frequent watering, best suited for beginners and busy folks. Check in Amazon.
2. ZZ Plant
The ZZ Plant is known for its dark green leaves. This is my go-to recommendation for busy friends. It doesn’t mind low light or irregular watering.
I’ve kept one in my north-facing bedroom for years, and it’s still growing strong. Water only when the soil is completely dry. Check in Amazon.
3. Pothos
The easiest plant to propagate. I’ve given dozens to friends. They adapt to any light condition and tell you when they need water by slightly dropping their leaves.
In winter, I mist mine weekly to combat dry air. It’s one of the stars of my indoor microgreens garden, hanging elegantly from shelves. Check in Amazon.
4. Peace Lily
My peace lily blooms reliably all winter. It’s like having a piece of spring indoors. Keep the soil lightly moist but not soggy.
When it droops dramatically, it’s asking for water. It’s been my go-to for adding a bit of freshness to my living room during winter. Check in Amazon.
5. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
This beauty comes in various colors and handles low light easily. I keep one in my living room corner, far from the windows. Water when the top inch of soil feels dry.
I love its vibrant leaves, which add a splash of color to my living room. Check in Amazon.
6. Christmas Cactus
My grandmother’s Christmas cactus is still blooming after 15 years! The simple secret is to keep it in a cooler room (around 65°F) and reduce watering in winter.
The temperature drop triggers beautiful blooms. This plant blooms beautifully during the winter holiday season. Check in Amazon.
7. Spider Plant
These are natural air purifiers. Mine has produced countless babies. I water less in winter and keep it away from cold windows.
Brown tips usually mean too much fluoride in tap water – I use filtered water. The Spider Plant is also pet-friendly. Check in Amazon.
8. Dracaena
Perfect for adding height to your indoor garden. My Dracaena marginata has thrived for years with minimal care. Just keep it away from drafts and water when the top 2 inches of soil are dry. Check in Amazon.
9. Rubber Plant
I love how its large, glossy leaves reflect winter light. Keep it in bright, indirect light, and wipe leaves monthly to maintain shine. Reduce watering significantly in winter. Check in Amazon.
10. Cast Iron Plant
True to its name – nearly indestructible. Mine survives in the darkest corner of my home. Perfect if you sometimes forget to water. Just avoid overwatering in winter. Check in Amazon.
11. Philodendron
Whether climbing or trailing, these are super adaptable. My heartleaf philodendron grows beautifully in winter. Water when the top inch of soil is dry and provides moderate light. Check in Amazon.
12. Anthurium
Those red blooms brighten up my kitchen all winter. The key is well-draining soil and moderate watering. I fertilize lightly every 6-8 weeks during winter. Check in Amazon.
13. Boston Fern
This one’s a natural humidifier. Mine thrives in my bathroom where it gets extra humidity. Mist regularly and keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Check in Amazon.
14. Bird’s Nest Fern
Unlike other ferns, it’s surprisingly tolerant of dry winter air. I keep mine on a pebble tray for extra humidity. The wavy leaves add interesting texture to any room. Check in Amazon.
15. Monstera Deliciosa
This trendy plant actually does well in winter. Mine grows slower but maintains those gorgeous split leaves. Water when the top 2 inches of soil dry out and wipe leaves monthly. Check in Amazon.
16. Aloe Vera
Aloe Vera is a hardy succulent that’s perfect for winter. Plus, it has many medicinal uses. Needs bright, indirect light and minimal watering.
I use its gel for winter skin hydration, making it a useful addition to my plant collection. Check in Amazon.
Tips for Taking Care of Indoor Plants in Winter
The biggest challenge in winter is managing dry air from heating systems. I have a humidity monitor and it’s shocking how low humidity can drop – sometimes below 30%.
Here’s what your indoor plants need during winter:
- Keep temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C)
- Maintain humidity above 40% (I use a humidifier)
- Water less frequently than in summer, and check soil moisture weekly
- Provide bright, indirect light
- Avoid cold drafts from windows or doors
- Use LED grow lights on particularly dark days (I use these for my herbs and microgreens too!)
You need to understand that every home has different conditions. What works in my north-facing living room might need adjusting for your space.
Start with one or two easy plants like pothos or snake plants, then try more types, as you gain confidence.
With the right indoor plants, you can keep your home lively, fresh, and full of life even during the coldest months
Have questions about any of these plants? I’d love to help – gardening is always better when we share our experiences.
