Winter isn’t just the season for blankets, hot cocoa, and cozy nights in – it’s also the perfect time to bring plants into your space. When the days get shorter, and our routines become more home-centered, indoor plants can thrive and give back some much-needed green. With a bit of basic care, certain types of plants do especially well in winter, giving our living spaces a refreshed, calming vibe just when we need it most.

In winter, many plants enter a slower growth phase where their water and light needs decrease. Some hardy indoor plants, though, benefit from this time of year. The cooler temperatures and reduced light can mimic the natural seasonal rhythms these plants are accustomed to, creating an ideal environment for them to quietly thrive while you enjoy a more relaxed care routine.

If sunlight is scarce, low-maintenance plants like the ZZ plant, snake plant, and pothos are wonderful choices. These resilient species flourish in indirect light, so you don’t need a bright, sunny window. ZZ plants (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) are an especially good match for winter, as they tolerate low light and can handle the dry indoor air that’s so common with indoor heating. This plant has glossy, deep green leaves that give it a striking look, even in low light.

Snake plants (Sansevieria), with their upright, sword-like leaves, bring a bold, modern look and can survive in less-than-ideal conditions. Their minimal water and light needs make them great companions for winter’s slower pace – perfect for anyone looking to add greenery without extra fuss. And for a touch of leafy elegance, pothos (Epipremnum aureum) vines are an absolute favorite. Known for their trailing stems, they thrive in various light conditions, from low to bright indirect, allowing you to place them almost anywhere. Imagine those beautiful vines cascading off a shelf or a bookcase, bringing life to your indoor space when it’s cold and gray outside.

Winter care is simple with a few thoughtful tweaks. When watering, check the soil first – if the top inch or two feels dry, that’s your sign to water. In winter, plants typically need less water than usual, so it’s a good time to adopt a “less is more” approach. Using room-temperature water helps prevent shock to the roots, ensuring they stay healthy even when the outside world is freezing.

Another common winter challenge is dry indoor air, which can cause browning or curling leaf edges. To keep plants happy, try misting the leaves every few days – this quick humidity boost is especially helpful for tropical varieties like pothos and philodendrons. You can also place a small bowl of water nearby; as the water evaporates, it raises the local humidity. For an even more reliable option, a small humidifier near your plants can improve the air quality for you and your greenery, making winter days feel a bit fresher.

Strategic placement helps as well. While hardy plants like pothos, ZZ plants, and snake plants are flexible with light, it’s best to keep them away from direct drafts or heating vents. Sudden blasts of hot or cold air can stress plants, causing leaf drop or wilting. Placing them in a stable, draft-free spot ensures they remain comfortable and healthy through the winter.

Aside from their beauty, there’s another reason to keep plants indoors during winter – the health benefits. Indoor plants naturally filter the air, remove toxins, and boost humidity, which helps counter the dryness caused by indoor heating. Studies even suggest that surrounding yourself with greenery can improve mood and reduce stress – an easy antidote to the winter blues.

Imagine a lush pothos spilling from a high shelf or a dramatic philodendron standing proudly in a corner. These plants not only bring color to a room but add a sense of vibrancy, warmth, and even movement to the colder season. There’s something deeply satisfying about caring for plants during winter’s quieter months. They give us a small, consistent connection to nature and remind us of growth, even when the world outside seems dormant.

As winter settles in, consider adding a few easy-care plants to your space. With minimal care, they’ll bring a breath of fresh, green life to your home, brightening winter days and inviting nature indoors, no matter the weather outside.