Indoor plants don't go outside, but they still feel winter: less light, drier air from heating, and cooler nights. Most "my plant is dying" messages in January are winter stress, not disease.
What changes in winter
- Light drops. A bright window in summer may be medium in winter. Move plants closer to glass (but off cold sills).
- Water use falls. Growth slows, so soil stays wet longer. Water less often; always check the soil first.
- Air dries out. Heaters drop humidity. Group plants or run a humidifier for humidity-lovers.
Two winter mistakes
Overwatering (because you keep the summer schedule) and cold drafts from leaky windows. Both show as yellow, dropping leaves.Simple winter routine
Cut water, not to zero
Check soil; many plants want half the summer frequency.
Maximise light
Clean windows, move plants nearer, rotate for even growth.
Skip fertilizer
Dormant plants don't eat. Resume in spring.
Watch the drafts
Keep tropicals away from icy window glass and open doors.
Should I fertilize in winter?
No. Most houseplants are semi-dormant. Feeding then just salts the soil.
My plant dropped leaves in winter but looks alive.
Likely light or watering adjustment. Steady care and spring growth will tell you.
A simple winter checklist
Cut water, not to zero
Check soil; many plants want half the summer frequency.
Maximise light
Clean windows, move plants nearer the glass, rotate for even growth.
Skip fertilizer
Dormant plants don't eat. Resume in spring.
Block drafts
Keep tropicals off cold window glass and away from open doors.
Tell winter stress from real trouble
Some leaf drop and slower growth in winter is the plant resting — normal. What's not normal: mushy black stems (overwatering in cold soil), or widespread yellowing with wet soil. If you kept the summer watering schedule through winter, that's almost always the cause; let the soil dry and ease off. Come spring, steady care brings it back.