Winter can feel long and grey, especially once the garden is covered in frost and the days grow short. One of the most common things I hear this time of year is, “I just miss the green.” The good news is you don’t have to wait for spring to reconnect with plants. Bringing the right indoor plants into your home can lift your mood, brighten your space, and give you something living to care for through the colder months.
Indoor plants do more than decorate a room—they help improve air quality, add humidity, and provide a much-needed sense of life during winter. Below are five of the best indoor plants to help beat the winter blues, chosen for their beauty, resilience, and ability to thrive indoors when conditions aren’t always perfect.
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria)
If winter had a “starter plant,” the snake plant would be it. With its upright, architectural leaves and deep green colour, it instantly adds structure and calm to a space.
Snake plants are incredibly forgiving. They tolerate low light, dry indoor air, and irregular watering—common winter challenges. They’re also known for improving indoor air quality, which is especially helpful when windows stay closed for weeks at a time.
Expert tip: Let the soil dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering in winter is the quickest way to damage this plant.
2. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Peace lilies are a favourite for winter because they thrive in less light and reward you with elegant white blooms when most plants are resting. Their glossy green leaves add softness and contrast beautifully against winter décor.
They also help increase indoor humidity, which can ease dry skin and respiratory discomfort caused by heated indoor air.
Expert tip: Peace lilies will tell you when they’re thirsty—drooping leaves are normal and quickly perk up after watering. Just don’t let them sit in standing water.
3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos is one of the most versatile indoor plants you can grow. Its trailing vines bring movement and warmth to shelves, bookcases, and hanging planters—something many homes lack during winter.
This plant adapts easily to different light levels and is very forgiving if you forget a watering or two. Watching new vines grow throughout winter is surprisingly uplifting.
Expert tip: Rotate your pothos every few weeks so growth stays even and full, especially when light is coming from one direction.
4. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ plant is a quiet confidence booster. With its thick, waxy leaves and slow, steady growth, it brings a sense of calm and stability—perfect for winter interiors.
It stores water in its roots, making it ideal for busy households or spaces with limited natural light. This is one of the best plants for offices, bedrooms, or anywhere winter light is scarce.
Expert tip: Less is more. Water sparingly and always err on the side of dryness during winter months.
5. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants are cheerful, fast-growing, and excellent for lifting winter moods. Their arching green-and-white leaves brighten a room, and their baby “spiderettes” give you something fun to propagate and share.
They’re also known for being great air purifiers, helping freshen indoor spaces during the heating season.
Expert tip: Spider plants enjoy bright, indirect light and slightly moist soil—but avoid cold drafts near windows.
How Indoor Plants Help Through Winter
Caring for plants in winter creates a simple routine that adds structure to the season. Even small acts—watering, wiping leaves, noticing new growth—can be grounding. Plants also soften harsh indoor lighting, reduce dryness in the air, and visually remind us that growth continues, even when it’s cold outside.
To keep your plants happy:
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Water less frequently than in summer
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Keep plants away from heating vents and cold drafts
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Wipe dust from leaves so they can absorb light efficiently
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Rotate plants regularly for balanced growth
Winter doesn’t have to feel dull or lifeless. The right indoor plants bring colour, texture, and a sense of calm to your home when you need them most. Whether you’re caring for a single snake plant or building a small indoor jungle, these five plants are reliable companions through the colder months.
If you’re unsure where to start—or want help choosing the best plants for your space—your local garden centre is always happy to guide you. A little green goes a long way in making winter feel lighter, warmer, and more alive.