You might come across a bit of a bah humbug moment from your indoor garden if you have any houseplants that loathe the winter season and everything that comes with it. The drop in temperature, the dry air, the low light...
But you don't need to give up any hope. While your winter houseplants flourish, turn your attention to these equally fussy and fabulous cultivars to help them get through the season and come out thriving.
Here are the plants you might have a little trouble with and how to get them to feel comfortable, even in the dead of winter.
1. Anthurium Crystal
This Anthurium Crystallinum from Carbeth Plants makes a great case for why fussy houseplants are worth the work.
First up, Bryan Wu of Palmstreet, tells me that anthurium crystal, especially of the red variety, is one of the most popular winter-hating houseplants. Although the glossy burgundy leaves look festive, he explains that they are prone to some common winter houseplant problems.
"These indoor plants tend to sulk when humidity drops, showing crisped edges and slowed growth," he explains. "I recommend giving it a warm spot away from vents and boosting moisture with a humidifier or pebble tray."
This Mini Room Humidifier from Kissleaf won't take up too much space in your indoor garden. Plus, it also features a soft light that will illuminate your houseplants at night.
Founded in 2018 in Houston by Bryan Wu, Wuhoo Tropicals is dedicated to growing and sharing unique tropical plants. And, he is also a plant expert and seller on Palmstreet. Bryan has been passionate about orchids since high school, and over the years, his love for plants has only grown. At Wuhoo Tropicals, there's a focus on Asian orchid species and breeding Anthuriums. They collect plants from around the world and have developed their own breeding lines. Their goal is to create exciting new anthurium hybrids and share their passion with plant collectors everywhere.
2. Philodendron Gloriosum
Plants like this Philodendron Gloriosum from Plants For All Seasons will return your growing efforts in vibrant foliage post winter.
Although some types of philodendron are considered to be low-maintenance plants for indoor gardening, there are some varieties that can be divas come winter. And Bryan tells me that philodendron gloriosum is one of them.
"This houseplant is famously known to be a crawler with velvet leaves that hates cold soil," he says. "To combat this issue, I recommend keeping its pot off chilly windowsills and watering sparingly."
He also encourages placing it in a spot that has bright, indirect light to prevent winter root rot. You can also treat this plant to a touch of light therapy if your indoor garden is in an especially dim corner.
3. Monstera Albo
This Monstera Albo from Plants For All Seasons might cost you some attention now but, trust me, it's so worth it!
According to Bryan, monstera albo is another houseplant that just doesn't enjoy a cool winter. Considering the fact that they already grow slowly and steadily due to the plant's variegation, he explains that winter makes it even fussier.
"Monstera albo needs consistent warmth and longer light exposure," he explains. "Plus, it's important to be careful when watering these houseplants to avoid browning white sections."
Bryan swears by indoor grow lights when caring for monstera albo in the winter. This Full Spectrum Growing Light is Amazon's Choice, and you can pick from different light finishes — all of which feature a timer and adjustable height.
4. Calathea Lancifolia
Take care of this Rattlesnake Plant from Beards & Daisies and it'll purify your air for years to come.
Marina Prokaten of Plantum tells me that calathea lancifolia is among the many tropical houseplants that aren't so winter-friendly. "You’ll recognize this beautiful plant by its pale green foliage marked with dark blotches on the outer side and tinted with purple on the inner side," she says.
These plants can experience curling leaves and browning tips due to the dry and drafty environment within a home. So, Marina recommends placing them in a draft-free corner with indirect light and watering with filtered water rather than tap.
Maintaining the ideal temperature for houseplants in the winter is another major trick you can use to your advantage. This is also a great time to stop fertilizing these houseplants, as this is when they enter a period of dormancy.
Marina Prokaten is a resident plant expert for the Plantum app, which helps users identify plant species, diagnose their conditions, and get specific care advice. She has three years of experience consulting on botany-related topics for Plantum.
5. Alocasia Melo
I mean, isn't this Alocasia Melo from Divas Plants worth a bit of extra love?
Characterized by its thick, textured leaves, alocasia melo is another beautiful houseplant that finds itself incompatible with the harsh climate of winter. And it's especially sensitive to the temperature.
"This indoor plant usually goes partially dormant in winter," he explains. "It’ll drop leaves if it’s too cold or overwatered, so keep it warm, cut back watering, and let it rest until spring."
These high-maintenance houseplants can be the diva of the group, but they are incredibly rewarding when given the right care on a regular basis. So, my advice is to indulge them now and enjoy their stunning foliage afterward.
Stylish Planters to Shop
Color: Green
In theme with classic festive colors for winter, this Stoneware Pot from Arket is neat for your seasonal garden stylings.
Color: Terracotta Pink
Pop your Christmas plants in this Planet Mars Flower Pot from Bergs Potter for a minimalist touch that is far from boring.
Color: Blue
Go full dopamine decor with your potted plant display and treat it to this Elements Bubble Stripe Plant Pot from Dunelm.
While you might be under some obligation to care for your existing winter-hating houseplants, you can lighten the load and increase the lushness of your interior garden by bringing home some cold-tolerant indoor plants. It's all the striking leafage with half the work.
