Tough Indoor Plants Perfect for Enduring Winter Chill
Winter indoors can be challenging for many plants, with lower light levels, dry air, and cooler temperatures. However, there are several houseplants that thrive in these conditions, making them perfect for the winter months. Here are some of the most reliable choices:
Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
The Snake Plant, also known as the Mother-in-Law's Tongue, is a hardy plant that thrives in low light and tolerates dry air well. It is hard to kill, making it an excellent choice for winter indoors where air tends to be dry and light levels are lower.
Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
The Chinese Evergreen is a resilient houseplant with show-stopping, patterned leaves. It thrives best in tropical climates but can tolerate all indoor growing conditions, including low light, cold, and dry environments. It does not discolor easily and requires well-draining, evenly moist soil.
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ Plant is drought tolerant and can survive in very low light. It tolerates neglect and dry conditions, making it good for low maintenance in winter.
Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
Known for its toughness, the Cast Iron Plant grows well in shade and tolerates neglect and dry air. It is great for poorly lit spots and cold indoor temperatures during winter.
While these plants tolerate low light, most grow better if there is at least some indirect natural light. Keep watering minimal in winter—allow soil to dry somewhat between waterings since growth slows down in cold/dark conditions. Avoid placing near drafty windows or heaters to prevent stress.
Christmas Cactus
Contrary to popular belief, the Christmas Cactus thrives on neglect and should be watered only when the soil is dry to the touch. It prefers high humidity growing environments, making it less suitable for winter indoors.
Philodendron
The Philodendron is a tough houseplant that thrives in both outdoor and indoor settings. It loves well-draining potting soil and can tolerate long periods of drought.
Hoya (Wax Plant)
Hoya, also known as the Wax Plant, is a trailing or climbing plant that can thrive in a variety of growing conditions and light levels. It prefers a slightly drier growing environment and light soil, and doesn't require frequent watering due to its waxy leaves that hold a lot of water.
Clivia
Clivia is known for its trumpet-shaped, vivid blossoms. It can survive low lights and drafty rooms, prefers a milder weather, and can tolerate dry environments. Clivias need enriched, well-draining soil and are prone to pests.
Jade Plant
The Jade Plant features striking, fleshy leaves and woody stems. It is one of the hardiest houseplants that can tolerate a combination of hot and cold air as well as less than ideal growing conditions. Its fleshy leaves can store water during the dry months.
Maidenhair Fern
The Maidenhair Fern is recognized by its graceful, lacy foliage. It naturally grows on forest floors and can survive low light growing conditions, humidity, and low temperature. It prefers shady environments and tolerates slightly dry environments when watered and misted frequently.
In summary, the Snake Plant, Chinese Evergreen, ZZ Plant, and Cast Iron Plant are among the most reliable choices for low-light, cold, and dry indoor environments typical of winter months. While the Christmas Cactus can thrive in winter conditions, it prefers high humidity, making it less suitable for indoor winter care. The Philodendron, Hoya, Clivia, Jade Plant, and Maidenhair Fern can also be good choices for indoor winter gardening, but they may require more attention to humidity and watering needs.
The Snake Plant and the ZZ Plant are ideal for those seeking home-and-garden projects during the winter months, as they thrive in low light and can survive in very dry conditions. Conversely, the Christmas Cactus may not be the best choice for winter indoor gardening, as it prefers high humidity environments.
