What To Do With Your Houseplants in Winter in Australia

When winter arrives in Australia, our outdoor gardens slow down—and so do our indoor plants. While the season might not bring snow to most parts of the country, the cooler temperatures, shorter days and drier air can still stress your houseplants. But don’t worry—with a few simple changes, your indoor jungle can stay healthy and happy all winter long.

1. Move Them Into the Light

Winter sun is weaker and doesn’t hang around as long, so your indoor plants need all the help they can get.

Place plants near bright, north-facing windows (south-facing if you’re in the Northern Hemisphere).
Rotate pots weekly to ensure even growth.
Clean your windows and dust your plant leaves so nothing blocks that precious light.

If you’ve got plants in darker spots, consider using a grow light for a few hours a day.

2. Watch the Temperature

Most houseplants like it warm—but not too warm.

Keep plants away from heaters, fireplaces, or air-conditioning vents, which can dry them out.
Avoid cold draughts from windows or doors.
Elevate pots off cold tiles using plant stands, wooden blocks or trays.

Aim to keep indoor temperatures around 15–25°C, depending on the plant species.

3. Cut Back on Watering

Plants grow slower in winter and don’t need as much water. Overwatering is a common mistake this time of year.

Check the soil with your finger—only water when the top 2–3 cm feels dry.
Always empty saucers after watering to avoid soggy roots.
Use room temperature water (cold water can shock roots).

Remember: it’s better to under-water than over-water during the cold season.

4. Boost the Humidity

Indoor heating can dry out the air, which many tropical plants dislike.

Mist your plants with a spray bottle (unless they’re prone to fungal issues).
Place a tray of pebbles with water under the pot (just make sure the pot isn’t sitting in the water).
Cluster plants together—they’ll create a mini humid microclimate.

Or, invest in a small humidifier to help keep your indoor air comfy for both you and your plants.

5. Keep Those Leaves Clean

Dust builds up quickly indoors and can block sunlight.

Gently wipe leaves with a soft, damp cloth.
Avoid using commercial leaf-shiners—they can clog pores and attract dust.
For plants like ferns or palms, a soft brush works well.

Think of it as a winter spa day for your plants!

6. Pause the Feeding and Repotting

Winter is a time of rest for most houseplants. They aren’t putting out much new growth, so they don’t need extra nutrients.

Hold off on fertiliser until spring when growth picks up again.
Only repot if absolutely necessary (e.g., root rot, pest infestation, or major overcrowding).

Let your plants rest—you’ll see them bounce back full of energy when the weather warms up.

7. Keep an Eye Out for Pests

The drier air indoors in winter can sometimes encourage pests like spider mites, mealybugs and scale insects.

Inspect plants weekly—look under leaves and along stems.
Isolate any infected plants and treat with neem oil or insecticidal soap.
Keep humidity up and avoid overwatering, which can attract fungus gnats.

A little vigilance goes a long way.

Winter Doesn’t Have to Mean Plant Hibernation

With just a few seasonal adjustments, your houseplants can thrive through the cooler months. It’s also a great time to enjoy your indoor greenery—especially when it’s a bit too chilly to garden outside!