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Houseplants That Thrive in Winter (Even With Low Light)
Jan
Winter in Florida looks a little different than winter up north. While outdoor gardens may still be growing, shorter days, cooler nights, and lower sun angles can slow things down — especially indoors. That makes winter the perfect time to enjoy houseplants that thrive with less light and minimal fuss.
At Lindley’s Garden Center, winter is an ideal season to refresh indoor spaces with easy-care houseplants that stay lush and healthy all year long.
Why Winter Light Still Matters in Florida
Even in sunny Florida, winter brings fewer daylight hours and less intense sun indoors. Homes often receive more indirect light during this season, especially in rooms with shaded windows or overhangs. Choosing plants that naturally tolerate lower light helps ensure success without constant adjustment.
Many popular houseplants originate from tropical understories, making them perfectly suited for Florida homes during winter.
Easy-Care Houseplants That Do Well in Florida Winters
These houseplants thrive with indirect or lower light and adapt well to Florida’s mild winter conditions.
Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
A Florida favorite. Snake plants handle low light, dry indoor air, and irregular watering with ease. They’re ideal for busy households or shaded rooms.
ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
With thick, glossy leaves and excellent drought tolerance, ZZ plants thrive in low light and stay attractive year-round.
Pothos
Pothos is a reliable trailing plant that grows well in indirect light and warmer indoor temperatures. Perfect for shelves, hanging baskets, or tabletops.
Peace Lily
Peace lilies prefer filtered light and consistent warmth. In Florida homes, they often perform beautifully through winter with minimal care.
Philodendron
Many philodendron varieties thrive indoors with indirect light and appreciate Florida’s naturally higher humidity.
Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Well suited to low-light spaces, Chinese evergreens are slow-growing, colorful, and easy to maintain during winter months.
Simple Winter Care Tips for Florida Homes
Houseplants may slow their growth slightly in winter, even in Florida. Water only when soil begins to dry, avoid over-fertilizing, and keep plants away from cold drafts caused by occasional cool fronts or air conditioning.
Good drainage and consistent temperatures are key to healthy winter houseplants.
Winter Houseplant FAQs (Florida Edition)
Do houseplants still need less water in winter in Florida?
Yes. Even in warm climates, plants grow more slowly in winter and need less frequent watering.
Can houseplants go outside during winter in Florida?
Some can, but indoor plants may need time to adjust to outdoor light and temperature changes. Always check overnight lows before moving plants outside.
What if my home doesn’t get much natural light?
Many houseplants thrive in indirect or low light, including snake plants, ZZ plants, pothos, and Chinese evergreens.
Should I fertilize houseplants in winter?
Light fertilizing is usually fine in Florida, but avoid heavy feeding until growth picks up in spring.
Why are my houseplants dropping leaves in winter?
This is often caused by temperature changes, overwatering, or reduced light. Minor leaf drop is common and usually temporary.
Keep Your Home Green All Winter
Houseplants are a simple way to bring life, color, and calm into your home throughout Florida’s winter season. With the right plant choices and basic care, indoor greenery can thrive year-round.
Visit Lindley’s Garden Center at 1232 Canal Street in New Smyrna Beach, or call 386-428-7298.
Hours:
Sunday: 11:00 AM–4:00 PM
Tuesday–Saturday: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Closed Mondays
Our knowledgeable team is happy to help you select houseplants that thrive in Florida’s unique winter conditions and fit your space beautifully.