The Easiest Winter-Friendly Houseplants for People Who Kill Everything

When winter rolls in, it can feel like every plant you touch is doomed. Between short days, dry air, and chilly rooms, even experienced plant parents struggle.

You might think you have the worst luck with houseplants. Luckily, there are plenty of options that can handle the cold months and a little neglect.

You can keep plants alive and thriving even in low light and dry air with the right easy-care options. These plants are perfect for anyone who worries about killing their greenery or just wants something simple to care for.

Spider Plant: thrives in low light and infrequent watering!

The spider plant is a lifesaver for anyone who forgets to water or has few sunny windows. It does well even when your home feels dark and gloomy.

Spider plants have thick roots that store water. You can skip a watering or two, and it will bounce back just fine.

Watching spider plants grow baby spiderettes is surprisingly fun. These little offshoots dangle from the mother plant and can be potted up to make more.

If you’re looking for a plant that forgives your mistakes, spider plants are up for the challenge.

Snake Plant: nearly indestructible and perfect for winter!

Snake plants are famous for surviving almost anything. They look cool with their upright, sword-like leaves and can handle dark corners easily.

You don’t have to water snake plants often, especially in winter. Once a month is usually enough.

They also help clean the air, which is a nice bonus when you’re spending more time indoors. If you’re forgetful or busy, this plant won’t hold it against you.

ZZ Plant: loves neglect and low light conditions!

If you’re always forgetting to water, the ZZ plant is a dream come true. It thrives where other plants might give up.

Its thick, shiny leaves store water, so it can go weeks without a drink. Even if you leave it in a dark corner, it keeps looking good.

You don’t need any plant skills to keep a ZZ plant alive. It’s the definition of low maintenance.

Pothos: easy-going vine that brightens any space!

Pothos is perfect for anyone who wants instant greenery without the stress. Its vines grow fast and look great trailing from shelves or hanging baskets.

This plant adapts to most light conditions, from low to bright indirect. Let the top inch of soil dry before watering, and it will stay happy.

You can easily propagate pothos by cutting a stem and placing it in water. It’s a fun way to grow more plants for free.

Peace Lily: cleans air and blooms with minimal care!

Peace lilies are a go-to for people who think they can’t keep plants alive. They handle low light and signal when they need water by drooping their leaves.

A peace lily’s glossy leaves and white blooms make any room feel fresher. They also remove toxins from the air, which is a nice perk.

Just keep the soil lightly moist, and your peace lily will reward you with blooms even in winter.

Cast Iron Plant: tough-as-nails and winter-hardy!

The cast iron plant is nearly impossible to kill. It shrugs off low light, missed waterings, and chilly rooms.

Its broad, dark green leaves add a bold look to your space. Even if you forget about it for a while, it will keep going strong.

This plant is ideal for anyone who wants greenery with almost no effort.

Philodendron: adapts easily and stays lush!

Philodendrons are forgiving and easy to care for. They do well in both bright and low light, so you can put them almost anywhere.

You don’t need to water often, just let the soil dry a bit between drinks. Some types climb, while others trail, so you can pick the style you like.

With their big, shiny leaves, philodendrons bring a tropical feel to your home with minimal work.

Chinese Evergreen: stylish and withstands low light!

Chinese evergreen is a great pick if you want a stylish plant that’s hard to kill. It thrives in low light and doesn’t mind if you forget to water now and then.

Its patterned leaves add a pop of color to any room. You can keep it by a north-facing window or even under office lights.

Just water when the soil feels dry, and it will keep looking fresh.

Dracaena: low-maintenance with striking leaves!

Dracaena brings a modern vibe with its long, glossy leaves in different shades and patterns. It stands out even in a crowded room.

You don’t have to water it much, just wait until the top of the soil is dry. It’s happy in low light, so winter won’t slow it down.

Dracaena grows upright, making it perfect for desks or tight corners.

Jade Plant: succulent that stores water for winter!

Jade plants are perfect for anyone who forgets to water. Their thick, fleshy leaves store water, so they stay healthy even in dry winter air.

Place your jade plant near a bright window, away from cold drafts. It loves warmth and needs only occasional watering.

With its shiny green leaves, the jade plant adds life to your space and can last for years with just a little care.

Why Some Houseplants Thrive in Winter

Some houseplants keep going strong even when the days are short and the air is dry. They have built-in traits that help them adjust to low light and cooler temperatures.

Plants that come from shaded forests or cool climates need less sunlight. They slow down in winter but don’t need much extra help to survive.

These plants use less water and energy during cold months. That’s why they can handle dry air and less light better than fast-growing varieties.

Low light tolerance is a big reason certain plants handle winter so well. If you see a plant labeled as “low-light” or “shade-loving,” it’s likely a good winter pick.

Plants that resist dry indoor air are also winners. Heating can dry out your home, but tough plants like spider plants keep their leaves healthy.

Some plants are fine with cooler rooms, even below 60°F. These traits make them perfect for surviving winter indoors.

Essential Tips for Keeping Winter Houseplants Alive

Keeping houseplants happy in winter is all about simple adjustments. Light and watering are the two main things to watch.

Light and Placement Hacks

Put your plants near south- or east-facing windows for the best light. If there’s not enough sunlight, a grow light can help for a few hours each day.

Keep plants away from cold windows or drafty spots. They like stable, warm places.

Rotate your plants every week so all sides get equal light. This keeps them growing straight and strong.

Watering Simplified for Cold Months

When the weather gets colder, plants slow down and their need for water changes. It can be easy to overwater during this time without realizing it.

Check the soil before reaching for the watering can. If the top inch feels dry, that is your cue to water.

Using room-temperature water helps prevent root shock. Water less frequently, but make sure the water reaches deep into the soil.

Depending on your home’s humidity and temperature, you might only need to water every 10 to 14 days. Some plants may even go longer between waterings.

After watering, always empty the saucers under your pots. This prevents roots from sitting in water and keeps them healthy through the season.