🪴 Winter Office Plant Survival Guide: Keep Your Workspace Green
The leaves have fallen from the trees, there’s a crisp chill in the air, and we’re on the cusp of the shortest day of the year. Winter presents unique challenges for our plants. With heating cranked up and light levels dropping, indoor plants enter a dormant phase, becoming susceptible to drying out and, most commonly, overwatering.
Whether at home or in your office, plant care doesn't have to be a chore. We understand that caring for plants can feel like a lot to absorb, especially when faced with sad office plants. But just like humans, when our needs change in winter, so do the needs of the living organisms around us.
Use this simple guide - drawn from our own Plant Expert’s care checklist - to ensure your plants, whether at home or in office, stay green and vibrant through the coldest months.
💧 The Golden Rule of Winter Plant Care: Water Less
Overwatering is the single most common mistake in plant care. As growth slows down and light decreases, your plants take in far less water.
Check First: Always check the soil moisture before watering. The top 2-3 cm should be dry. If the top layer feels damp, wait a few days.
Reduce Frequency: Consciously reduce your watering frequency.
Avoid Wet Feet: If your plants are in soil, empty any excess water from saucers after watering.
☀️ Mastering Light and Temperature
During winter, plants crave light, but they must be protected from cold drafts and harsh heat.
Light Management
Plants naturally receive less sunlight in winter - so give them a boost.
Move Closer: Move plants closer to daylight (windows).
Avoid Contact: Ensure they are not pressing against cold window glass, which can lead to frostbite.
Rotate: Turn them weekly so each side gets the light it needs.
Maximize: Clean windows and dust the leaves for maximum light absorption. Open blinds and curtains earlier in the day.
Humidity & Heat
Office heating and radiators dry the air quickly, leading to low humidity. This is a major challenge for plant survival.
Mind the Heat: Keep plants away from heaters, radiators, and vents.
Group Up: Group plants together to help them retain moisture and increase local humidity.
Mist: Mist plants lightly or consider adding a humidifier.
Look for Signs: Check for dry or crispy leaf tips, a common sign of low humidity.
Going Away? Consider lowering the heating slightly.
🌿 Pests and General Winter Rest
Winter is a time of rest for you - and your plants.
General Care
Skip Fertilizing: Avoid fertilizing until spring. Plants typically don’t grow during this season.
Skip Repotting: Avoid repotting or propagating, as plants rest in winter.
Airflow: Ensure adequate airflow, but close those windows to prevent cold drafts.
Check for Pests
Warm, dry indoor environments can attract tiny pests like spider mites and mealybugs.
Weekly Check: A quick weekly check will keep your greenery healthy. Inspect the undersides of leaves, as pests hide there first. Look for sticky residue, white webs, or tiny spots.
Act Fast: Isolate any affected plants immediately and start treatment ASAP.
🎁 Download Your Free Winter Care Checklist
To ensure your team has an easy, printable reference for winter plant care, download our complete checklist.
[DOWNLOAD THE FREE GUIDE HERE]
Need year-round, hassle-free plant care?
👉 Every office has a plant person. Let's make their job a joy, not a chore
Visit plantclub.io to book a free consultation to see how we can provide expert care for your workspace this winter and beyond.
Plantclub.io creates green workplaces that grow with you. We transform offices with flexible plant rentals, tailored design, and expert care. We also offer perks like workshops and events to help your team reconnect with nature. Let’s grow something together. Book a time to chat with us today.
