Here's Why You May Need To Water Your Houseplants Less In Winter

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Whether you're new to owning houseplants or have an ever-expanding collection, ensuring your plants are hydrated is one of your main responsibilities. Paying attention to the moisture in the soil is important.

During the colder months, indoor plants typically receive less sunlight, which means their growth slows down. Slower growth typically means houseplants need less water. «When light quantity and duration decreases, photosynthesis and certain other biological processes slow down, explains Leslie F. Halleck, certified professional horticulturist based in Dallas, Texas, and author ofGardening Under Lights.

However, there are factors, such as light levels, home temperature, and humidity, that will influence how much water your plants need.

• Leslie F. Halleck is a certified professional horticulturist based in Dallas, Texas, and author ofGardening Under Lights.
• Lisa Madz is the resident plant expert for Rosy Soil.

In winter, days are shorter and there's less natural light, affecting plant growth. „Houseplants typically need less water in winter, because they experience slower growth and reduced transpiration due to lower light levels and cooler temperatures,“ says Lisa Madz, resident plant expert for Rosy Soil. The rate of photosynthesis slows down and the amount of water houseplants can absorb is reduced.

However, most houseplants don't go dormant like many outdoor plants but they will have a slower growth period. „Plants may experience what we call quiescence, or a slower quiet period,“ says Halleck.