Indoor Plants for Winter: How to Shift Your Routine for Spring and Beyond
Okay y’all! We made it out of winter, and we’re steadily creeping into the kind of consistent warmth our indoor plants thrive in. 🌞🌱
But first, let’s take a moment of silence for the plants that didn’t make it. I’m gonna keep it buck—some of my babies went on to glory this winter, and honestly, a few are still hanging on by a thread. PHEW. Anybody else got a few in the glory crew?
Anyway, let’s talk about how to show love to the iconic plants that did survive and help them shift into their spring glow-up.
1. Dust Those Leaves
Dust your plants… even the prickly ones.
This should already be in your regular care routine, but now’s a good time to catch up if you skipped it. Dust blocks light and messes with photosynthesis. Use a damp microfiber cloth—or an old t-shirt, no judgment—and gently wipe the leaves. They need a clear path to soak up that spring sun. Have some Cacti that needs dusting? Use a brush similar to one in picture!
2. Adjust Your Watering Routine
Many plants slow down in winter and don’t need much water. But now? They’re waking up. More light = more growth = faster-drying soil.
Think of it like a growing kid—more energy, more fuel. Same idea here. It doesn’t mean drown your plant—it means you may need to water a little more often as the soil dries out faster. Let the soil (not your calendar) guide you.
3. Fertilize (But Ease Into It)
Didn’t gatekeep—just dropped the link.
Grab it here if you’re curious.
Spring means your plants are waking up—but they’re not sprinting yet. Start with a gentle feeding routine.
One fertilizer that’s everywhere online right now is Jack’s Houseplant Special 15-30-15. It’s a water-soluble powder—you mix it into water before applying. I haven’t used it long-term, but it’s a popular pick for giving plants a nutrient boost as they head into their growing season.
Pro tip:
Whether it’s this one or another fertilizer, go with half-strength at first. Your plant’s roots are adjusting, and too much too fast can burn them out.
Curious to try it?
👉 Grab Jack’s 15-30-15 here from our online shop - delivered straight to your door.
4. Time to Repot?
Don’t repot just for the vibes. Only do it if:
• Roots are poking through drainage holes
• Water drains out immediately or pools on top too long
• It’s been 1–2 years in the same pot
When you do repot, size up by no more than 2 inches, use fresh soil (the right mix for your plant), choose a pot with drainage, and water deeply. Toss any water sitting in the saucer after 10 minutes.
5. Do a Light Check
Spring sun is no joke—these cacti are soaking it up by the window. Just don’t forget to rotate or risk the lean.
Spring means stronger, longer light—and your plants will notice. Rotate them more often to avoid leaning or lopsided growth. If you weren’t already rotating in winter, now’s the time to get back on it. Otherwise, you’ll be looking at the Leaning Tower of Pisa in your living room. Save that photo op for your next trip to Italy, okay?
Final Word:
Follow these tips and give your plants the seasonal refresh they deserve. Now excuse me while I go tend to my fiddle leaf in the ICU. Sis barely made it through winter, but we’re working on that comeback. 💚
Still in winter plant care mode? It’s time to switch it up. This week’s blog is all about helping your plants shake off the winter blues and get ready to thrive. From updating your watering habits to checking light levels and knowing when (or if) to repot—it’s all about aligning your routine with what spring actually calls for. At The ZEN Succulent, we’re here to help you build simple, seasonal plant habits that meet your plants where they’re at—no stress, no overthinking, just growth.
Words By The ZEN Succulent
Inspiring everyone to embrace the world of plants, our collection features articles penned by The Sill's team of seasoned plant experts. Covering a range of plant care topics, because we truly believe Plants Bring Life, Joy and Inspirations™
