Houseplants That Thrive in Winter (Even With Low Light)

When the outdoor garden settles into dormancy and daylight hours are short, houseplants become the easiest way to keep your home feeling fresh, calm, and alive. Many popular houseplants don’t just tolerate winter conditions — they actually thrive in them, even with lower light levels.

At Copia Home & Garden, winter is a perfect time to focus on easy-care houseplants that fit real homes and realistic routines.

Why Some Houseplants Do Well in Winter

Many houseplants originate from shaded forest floors or tropical understories where bright sunlight is filtered. These plants naturally adapt to indirect light and slower growth cycles, making winter an ideal season for them. Cooler indoor temperatures and reduced watering needs also mean less maintenance during the colder months.

Easy-Care Houseplants for Low-Light Winter Spaces

Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
One of the most forgiving houseplants available. Snake plants tolerate low light, dry indoor air, and infrequent watering, making them ideal for winter care.

ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
With thick roots that store water and glossy leaves that reflect light, ZZ plants thrive in low light and require very little attention.

Pothos
A versatile trailing plant that adapts well to indirect or low light. Pothos adds warmth and softness to shelves, bookcases, and hanging planters.

Peace Lily
Peace lilies prefer indirect light and slightly cooler indoor temperatures. Their deep green leaves 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 favorite with attractive patterned foliage. Slow-growing and forgiving, it’s well suited for winter conditions.

Simple Winter Houseplant Care Tips

During winter, houseplants grow more slowly. 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 natural light?
Many houseplants thrive in low or indirect light, including snake plants, ZZ plants, pothos, and Chinese evergreens.

Why are my houseplant leaves turning yellow?
Yellow leaves are often caused by overwatering or poor drainage, which is more common in winter when plants use less water.

Should I mist houseplants in winter?
Misting helps slightly, but grouping plants together or using a humidifier is often more effective.

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 Copia Home & Garden at 475 Smith Ridge Road South, Salem, NY, or call (914) 533-7242.

Winter Hours:
Monday: Closed
Tuesday: Closed
Wednesday–Saturday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Sunday: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

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