Indoor plants in winter: light, watering and care

As the days shorten, adjust care to your plants’ actual activity. A dimmer location, nearby heating or persistently damp substrate each call for different checks.

Review the location and light

Identify pots that receive less light than in summer and keep foliage away from cold window panes and direct heat sources. If the location is still too dim, compare indoor plant lights and read the lighting guide. Keep a period without lighting and follow the instructions.

Water according to the substrate

Do not automatically keep the summer routine. Check moisture below the surface and the pot’s weight. A plant growing under a lamp may remain more active than one that is resting. The guide to adjusting watering for tropical plants explains these checks.

Measure humidity without saturating the room

Heating can change the air around the foliage. Take measurements before adding a device and also monitor room ventilation. The guide to measuring and managing humidity can help you choose a suitable response; misting does not guarantee a stable level.

Adjust feeding and observe

Check new growth before adding fertiliser and follow the label. Slow winter growth does not prove a deficiency. Clean leaves using a suitable method, inspect for pests and record changes to your settings. If a plant declines, revisit the method for checking plant nutrient deficiencies.

Editorial review: 3 October 2026 · TerraLED. Set up your equipment according to its instructions and the needs of the species.