Why and How Time of Year Affects Your Houseplants

Learn how and why the time of year affects your houseplants. Why houseplants might not be growing can have to do with time of year. How indoor temperature affects houseplants.

#healthyhouseplants #indoorplantcare #seasonalplanttips #houseplantlove #plantparenting

Welcome to HealthyHouseplants.com, where we teach you all about gardening in the great indoors! Today’s video is sponsored by an Amazon affiliate link, which you’ll find in the description below, along with links to other videos mentioned here.

Today, we’re discussing why the time of year matters for your houseplants. It might seem like seasonality wouldn’t matter indoors, but it actually has a significant impact on plant growth. Even in a simulated environment, houseplants sense seasonal changes.

One of the most important seasonal changes is lighting. In winter, days are shorter, and there’s less natural light coming through your windows. Plants detect this and adjust their growth accordingly. During spring, they recognize it’s time to grow. In fall and winter, many plants slow down or even go dormant.

If you notice your houseplant has stopped growing in winter, don’t worry—this is normal. Plants naturally follow the cues of their outdoor counterparts. Similarly, during very hot summers, some indoor plants may also slow their growth due to stress.

In the spring, most plants become more active. Their hormonal response to the seasonal shift tells them it’s time to grow. Fall signals them to prepare for dormancy by taking up any remaining moisture and nutrients. As a general rule, fall is a good time to give your plants their last feeding until late February or March.

Another key seasonal factor is humidity. Whether it’s dry winter heat, summer air conditioning, or a hot, dry climate, changes in humidity affect your plants. A hygrometer is a helpful tool to monitor both humidity and temperature. Every plant has specific humidity and temperature needs, and this device helps keep your indoor climate plant-friendly.

Even though indoor plants are protected from outdoor extremes like blizzards or heatwaves, they still respond to the time of year. Understanding these changes will help you make your plants more comfortable—and happy plants mean happy plant parents!

If your plant seems off or isn’t growing, always consider the time of year as a potential reason. Thanks for watching! Please leave comments with any indoor gardening tutorials you’d like to see. Don’t forget to like, comment, subscribe, and click the bell to get notified about our latest videos.

FAQ: Why Time of Year Matters for Houseplants

Does the time of year really affect houseplants grown indoors?

Yes, even though they’re indoors, houseplants respond to seasonal changes like light levels, humidity, and temperature variations.

Why do houseplants stop growing in winter?

Houseplants often enter a semi-dormant state in winter due to reduced daylight and cooler indoor temperatures, mimicking outdoor seasonal patterns.

Should I feed my houseplants in the fall and winter?

Fall is typically the last time you should fertilize. Most houseplants don’t need feeding again until late February or March.

How does humidity affect indoor plants throughout the year?

Humidity levels change with seasons and HVAC use. Low humidity from heaters or air conditioners can dry out plants. Use a hygrometer to monitor levels.

Can seasonal lighting impact plant health indoors?

Yes. Shorter days in winter reduce natural light, slowing plant growth. Supplemental lighting may help keep them healthy and thriving.