Rubber Plant

Houseplants are such a lifesaver for keeping the gardening vibe going through winter, but this season definitely throws a few curveballs our way. Here's what I've learned to watch for and how I handle it.

1. Keep an eye on windows for cold drafts, and if you find a chilly spot, take steps to seal and insulate it better. I always pull my plants away from cold windows, especially at night when temps really drop. If you close your curtains, make sure your plants aren't stuck between the fabric and the glass—that gap can turn into a cold trap. If you keep your heat on the low side, check out "Houseplants That Withstand Drafts and Cold Rooms."

2. As the quality and length of daylight shifts, pay attention to how your houseplants react:

• During the shortest, darkest days of winter, your houseplants will probably slow down or stop growing altogether. That's normal—they won't need as much water and definitely shouldn't be fertilized right now. If you've got a room that barely gets any sun, try a plant from "Houseplants That Can Grow in Low Light."
• Once the days start getting longer again, you'll likely spot new growth—that's your cue to start fertilizing and checking the soil more often. I'd recommend checking out "Watering Houseplants: Tips and Tricks" for smart watering advice. If your plant has outgrown its pot, this is a great time to size up.
• With light levels shifting, you might notice scorched leaves or a plant dropping foliage. When that happens, I think about whether they're getting too much or too little sun for the season, and I move them to a better spot.

3. Watch out for dry air. Heating systems just make winter's already-low humidity worse. To keep your humidity-loving houseplants content and avoid those sad, crispy leaf edges, I swear by the tips in "Increase Humidity for Houseplants."