7 Products to Help You Prep Your Houseplants for Winter

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Winter is tough on houseplants, even indoors. Shorter days mean less sunlight, indoor heating systems dry out the air, and temperature swings from drafty windows can stress even hardy varieties. But with the right approach and a few essential tools, you can keep your indoor plants thriving until spring returns.

During winter, houseplants enter a period of slower growth or dormancy. They need less water, no fertilizer, and extra attention to environmental conditions. The key is addressing the season’s biggest challenges: inadequate light, low humidity, and inconsistent temperatures. Here are the products that will help your houseplants survive, and even thrive, through the coldest months.

1. Soil Moisture Meter

A moisture meter helps you accurately monitor soil moisture content and prevent overwatering, a common winter problem. 

“I tested the Xlux soil moisture meter on various types of soil and dampness levels, and it responded accurately.”–Glenda Taylor, Product Reviews tester and writer

2. Hygrometer

Place the hygrometer near houseplants to keep track of indoor humidity. Houseplants are often just fine with the heated temperature indoors, but not with the dry air: check if your plants need more humidity with an indoor hygrometer. 

3. Mini Humidifier

If you’re happy with the humidity, but your plants could use an extra boost, the Crane 4-in-1 Drop Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier is small and affordable. This compact, budget-friendly humidifier is ideal for adding some humidity near houseplants, without making the home feel too damp. 

4. Humidifier

If you also feel dry in the winter, the Levoit Classic Ultrasonic Smart Humidifier makes the air more comfortable for all living beings.  This user-friendly smart humidifier covers up to 500 square feet and has a large water tank for longer-lasting comfort for people and plants. 

5. Grow Light

Give plants enough rays during the dark winter days with the AeroGarden Tabletop Grow Light.

“The AeroGarden tabletop grow light, with its sleek and compact design, is an excellent solution for indoor gardeners looking to support their houseplants in areas with insufficient natural light. Ideal for small to medium-size plants, this lamp integrates well with home decor, adding elegance to any space.” - Debbie Wolfe, Product Tester and Writer

6. Insecticidal Soap

Natria Insecticidal Soap kills a range of houseplant pests with a safe formula that’s suitable for organic gardening. Pests can hitch a ride indoors on the plants you bring in for the fall: an insecticidal soap can knock them out. 

7. Small Watering Can

While it’s not a necessity, the Haws The Langley Sprinkler Watering Can can make watering indoor plants easier. 

“The Langley Sprinkler watering can from Haws offers both form and function. This option features a nostalgic garden watering can design in a miniature size that is perfect for maintaining indoor plant collections and could even serve well as a decorative vase.” — Mark Wolfe, Product Reviews tester and writer

 

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