Winter is a time for rest, not just for gardeners but for many plants in your garden as well.
While some plants continue to grow and thrive during the colder months, others enter a period of dormancy and require minimal care – especially when it comes to watering.
Overwatering dormant plants can lead to root rot, disease, and even death.
9 Plants That Need a Break: Stop Watering Them This Winter
Here are nine plants that need you to stop, or significantly reduce, watering them this winter.
1. Cacti
Cacti are built for survival in dry environments, and during the winter, they enter a dormant phase. Overwatering cacti during this time can lead to waterlogged roots and rot.
Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, and in most cases, watering once every 4-6 weeks is enough. Place them in a cool, sunny spot to help them rest.
2. Succulents
Like cacti, many succulents, including jade plants, echeverias, and aloes, go dormant in winter.
These plants store water in their fleshy leaves, which means they don’t need regular watering during the colder months.
Water sparingly – only when the soil is completely dry, and even then, only a small amount.
3. Fiddle-Leaf Fig
Fiddle-leaf figs slow their growth significantly during winter, making them more susceptible to overwatering.
Keep the soil barely moist and allow the top inch to dry out completely before watering again.
Overwatering can cause root rot and leaf drop, so it’s better to err on the side of underwatering during winter.
4. Pothos
This hardy houseplant thrives on neglect during winter. Since its growth slows in the cooler months, pothos requires less water.
Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to avoid waterlogged roots.
This is also a good time to check for yellowing leaves, which can indicate too much water.
5. Fuchsias
Fuchsias grown outdoors or in containers enter a dormant phase in winter and don’t need regular watering.
Cut back watering to once a month or less, depending on the climate, and allow the soil to stay on the drier side.
Overwatering dormant fuchsias can cause their roots to rot and delay their spring growth.
6. Lavender
Lavender thrives in dry conditions, even during the warmer months, so it’s no surprise that it requires very little water in winter.
Once established, lavender plants can survive with minimal watering during dormancy. Ensure good drainage and avoid soaking the soil to protect the plant’s roots.
7. Caladiums
Caladiums are tropical plants that die back and go dormant during the winter. If you’re growing them in pots or outdoors, allow the foliage to die naturally and stop watering completely.
For bulbs stored indoors, keep them in a cool, dry place until it’s time to plant them in spring.
8. Citrus Trees (Indoors)
Citrus trees, like lemons and oranges, grown indoors during winter require less frequent watering.
While they still need sunlight and occasional moisture, their growth slows, and overwatering can lead to yellow leaves and fungal problems.
Water sparingly, ensuring the soil is dry a few inches below the surface before watering again.
9. Snake Plant
The snake plant, also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, is one of the most low-maintenance houseplants – and that’s especially true in winter.
This hardy plant prefers to dry out completely between waterings. During winter, you might only need to water it once a month or less.
Why Reducing Watering Matters
Overwatering is one of the most common causes of plant failure during winter.
As temperatures drop, plants use less water because their growth slows or stops entirely. Soil that stays consistently wet can suffocate roots and encourage diseases like root rot.
By reducing watering, you mimic the plant’s natural environment and help it survive the winter months.
Tips for Watering Dormant Plants
Knowing when to stop, or reduce, watering your plants can make all the difference in their health and survival during winter.
By giving these nine plants the break they need, you’ll not only save yourself time but also set the stage for a healthier, more vibrant garden when spring arrives.
Take a step back, let your plants rest, and enjoy the slower pace of winter gardening!
