How to Overwinter Plants Indoors

Successfully overwinter outdoor plants by gradually acclimating them to indoor conditions, choosing the right location with adequate light, and adjusting watering and care routines for dormancy.

1. Block Pests Before They Enter. Check thoroughly for pests like aphids, spider mites, or scale insects on leaves, stems, and soil surface. Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged foliage with clean pruning shears. Spray plants with a gentle insecticidal soap solution and let dry completely. This prevents introducing pests to your indoor environment and other houseplants.
2. Ease Them Into the Change. Start the transition 1-2 weeks before your first expected frost. Move plants to a shaded outdoor area for 3-4 days, then to a covered porch or garage for another 3-4 days. This gradual acclimation prevents shock from sudden changes in light, temperature, and humidity that can cause leaf drop or plant stress.
3. Find the Brightest Spot Possible. Place plants in the brightest available spot, typically a south-facing window. Most overwintering plants need at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily. Keep plants away from heating vents, radiators, and frequently opened doors where temperature fluctuations occur. Group plants together to create a microclimate with higher humidity.
4. Less Water, Better Drainage. Reduce watering frequency significantly since plants grow slower in winter with less light and cooler temperatures. Check soil moisture by inserting your finger 1-2 inches deep - water only when soil feels dry at this depth. Water thoroughly but less frequently, ensuring good drainage to prevent root rot.
5. Boost Light When Natural Isn't Enough. Install grow lights 12-18 inches above plants if your windows don't provide enough natural light. LED grow lights work well for most plants and generate less heat. Run lights for 12-14 hours daily for actively growing plants, or 8-10 hours for dormant plants just maintaining survival.
6. Combat Dry Indoor Air. Indoor air is typically too dry for many plants during winter heating season. Place water-filled trays with pebbles under plants or use a humidifier to maintain 40-50% humidity. Avoid misting leaves directly as this can promote fungal diseases in the lower light conditions.
7. Let Dormancy Do Its Thing. Stop or drastically reduce fertilizing from November through February since most plants are dormant or growing very slowly. Resume light feeding in late winter when you notice new growth appearing. Over-fertilizing dormant plants can cause weak, spindly growth or root burn.