Houseplants bring life and warmth indoors, especially during long East Coast winters. But colder months can be challenging for them—shorter daylight hours, dry heated air, and drafts all add stress. On top of that, using icy tap water or exposing plants to sudden chills can cause lasting damage. With the right care, you can help your houseplants not only survive winter but stay strong until spring.
Maintain the Right Temperature
Most houseplants thrive in the high 60s °F during winter.
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Keep plants away from cold drafts near windows, doors, or poorly insulated walls.
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Avoid direct heat from radiators, fireplaces, and vents, which can dry out soil and scorch leaves.
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Try to maintain steady room temperatures without sharp fluctuations.
How Cold Damages Houseplants at the Cellular Level
Even indoors, houseplants can suffer from cold stress. Drafts from windows and doors or watering with icy tap water can cause water inside plant cells to form tiny ice crystals. These crystals expand and rupture delicate cell walls, leaving the tissue damaged. Tap water in winter can be very cold, and watering with it may shock houseplant roots. The results may not appear immediately, but often show up as:
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Yellowing leaves
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Dropping leaves
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Wilting despite moist soil
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Slowed or stunted growth
Always water with room-temperature or slightly warm water. Let water sit overnight to reach a safe temperature and allow chemicals like chlorine to dissipate.
Maximize Light
With shorter days and weaker sunlight, many houseplants need a boost. Move them closer to bright, south- or east-facing windows, or use a grow light to mimic natural daylight.
Increase Humidity
Heaters and radiators can make indoor air very dry. To help:
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Group plants together to create a microclimate.
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Use a humidifier.
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Place plants on pebble trays with water (without letting roots sit in it).
Summary
Caring for houseplants during an East Coast winter means paying attention to the details: keep room temps in the high 60s °F, avoid cold drafts and direct heat, water only with lukewarm water, and support humidity and light. Cold exposure—even indoors—can damage plant cells and lead to yellowing or dropping leaves. By protecting your houseplants from stress now, you’ll keep them strong, vibrant, and ready to thrive once spring arrives.
