Protecting houseplants near windows is a common concern during colder months. Winter conditions pose significant challenges to their well-being, making it important to understand potential risks and implement appropriate care strategies.
Winter Window Challenges for Plants
Windows provide essential light but can become sources of environmental stress for plants during winter. Cold drafts from windowpanes and frames create localized zones of significantly lower temperatures, shocking plant tissues and leading to rapid temperature fluctuations. Extremely low humidity is another common issue. As indoor heating systems operate, they typically dry out the air, reducing humidity levels far below what many tropical houseplants prefer. Plants near windows experience this dry air intensely, leading to foliage moisture loss. Natural light intensity and duration also decrease significantly in winter, potentially leading to insufficient light for plant growth.
Factors Influencing Your Decision
Deciding whether to move plants from windows depends on several factors specific to your home and plants. Plant species plays a significant role; tropical plants are generally more sensitive to cold and low humidity, preferring temperatures between 65-75°F (18-24°C) and higher humidity levels. In contrast, some succulents and cacti are more tolerant of drier air and cooler conditions.
The type of window also matters. Single-pane windows offer less insulation than double-pane windows, allowing more cold to transfer to nearby plants. Older windows, regardless of pane count, may have poorer insulation or more drafts. The severity of your local winter climate, including prolonged freezing temperatures, directly impacts the potential for cold stress. Indoor heating systems, such as forced-air heating, can further reduce humidity, influencing the environment near windows.
Making the Decision to Move or Not
Based on these factors, you can determine if relocating your plants is advisable. Moving plants is often recommended for sensitive species, such as tropical varieties, especially if your windows are poorly insulated or if outdoor temperatures are consistently low. Plants showing signs of stress, such as wilting, discolored leaves (yellowing, browning, blackening), stunted growth, or leaf drop, indicate a move may be necessary to prevent further damage. Conversely, moving plants might be unnecessary if you have hardy species known to tolerate cooler, drier conditions, or if your windows are modern and well-insulated, effectively mitigating cold drafts. If your winter climate is mild and plants show no signs of distress, they may continue to thrive in their current window-side locations.
How to Move Plants Safely
If you decide to relocate your plants, a safe and gradual approach is important to minimize shock. Select a new location that provides consistent temperatures, is away from direct drafts, and offers adequate light suitable for the plant’s needs. Gradually acclimatize the plant to its new conditions to prevent stress, perhaps by moving it to a slightly cooler or warmer spot for several days before final placement. Before the move, inspect the plant thoroughly for any pests, as relocating can disrupt existing infestations and spread them. Treat pests before the move. When handling plants, support the pot and foliage to avoid damaging stems or leaves, especially for larger or more delicate specimens.
Caring for Plants That Stay By Windows
For plants that remain near windows, several strategies can mitigate winter challenges. Insulating windows can significantly reduce cold transfer; options include thermal curtains, weatherstripping to seal drafts, or temporarily covering windows with bubble wrap for added insulation. Increase humidity by placing pebble trays filled with water beneath pots (ensuring pots don’t sit directly in water), grouping plants to create a microclimate, or using a room humidifier.
Monitoring soil moisture is important, as plants typically require less frequent watering in winter due to slower growth. Water only when the top inch or two of soil feels dry. If natural light is insufficient, supplemental grow lights can provide necessary intensity and duration for healthy growth.