Now that you put your garden to bed for the winter and have been forced indoors by chilly weather, your green thumb may be going through a bit of withdrawal. But the gardening doesn’t have to stop just because the seasons changed! Instead, focus your energies on indoor winter plants.
 
But caring for indoor plants isn’t just a way to indulge your green thumb or add a pop of greenery to a room — there are plenty of health reasons to consider getting an indoor plant this winter.  For example, experts estimate that 6% of adults suffer from seasonal affective disorder (SAD), and another 14% experience a milder version referred to as the winter blues. Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has had serious implications on mental health around the globe.
 
Fortunately, plants can help! A recent study showed that caring for a plant reduces physiological and psychological stress. Just being near plants has a significant positive impact on a person’s mood.
 
However, caring for indoor plants can be a bit trickier than outdoor plant parenting, especially if you aren’t used to it. You can’t just take your favorite outdoor potted plant inside and carry on like usual. You have to consider lower light levels, potential drafts from windows or air vents, and drier air when the furnace keeps the outdoor chill away. Choosing the correct watering pattern can also be challenging for those who aren’t used to cultivating an indoor plant.
 
Whether you are already a gardening pro or a new plant parent, you’ll want to consider a hardy plant that can withstand the unique conditions of a house during the winter. Consider qualities like tolerance of limited sunshine, drafts, and low humidity when choosing your indoor plants. The visual below highlights 15 winter indoor plants and the care they require so you can start your indoor garden off successfully.
 
Whether you want to keep your green thumb in shape until you can plant a new garden this spring or want to ward off the winter blues, winter indoor plants can help!