5 Best Winter House Plants

This time of year can feel a little bit drab and dreary and we all miss the beautiful colours and energy that we get from a blooming summer garden. While the weather may not be ideal for gardening there is no reason to miss out on botanical style; with a few winter house plants you can create zoned areas of colour and foliage within your interior space. With an array or species and colours to choose from you will be sure to find the perfect plant for your home.

Poinsettia

These classic winter plants are always abundant during the Christmas season and make great gifts for green fingered family and friends. The rich red colour will look fabulous in both modern and classic home interiors and will create a festive charm in your home. Select plants with deep green leaves and an equal proportion of leaves and foliage to the size of the pot. Poinsettias are grown in tropical climates between 60-70 degrees F and are therefore ideal for indoor use. High or low temperatures will affect the growth and bloom of the flowers so ensure that the plant is kept away from cold drafts or vents and radiators and keep at a lower 55-60 degree F temperature during the night. Always water enough to soak the bottom of the pot and then drain away any excess water.

Christmas Cacti

Another popular indoor plant during the winter months is the Christmas Cacti which is bold and elegant and provides a lovely colourful bloom during autumn to spring while maintaining its rich green body during the remainder of the year. The flowers can be white, pink, red, purple and yellow depending on the species of the plant and hang downward from the end of the cactus in a pendulum style. As this cactus usually grows in jungle and woodland areas they prefer a partially shaded position in the home where it is well lit yet out of direct sunlight. These should not be under watered or overwatered, the soil should be kept moist and the pot should be kept on a gravel plate to aid humidity and drainage.

Kalanchoe

This succulent is a popular choice for those who like low maintenance houseplants that are colourful and cheerful.  The compact plants feature small clusters of flowers in orange, pink, yellow, red and white. They thrive in the low humidity of winter homes but should not be placed near radiators or areas of draft.  Select a plant with plenty of closed buds, not one that is in full bloom and display in an area where there is lots of indirect sunlight to prevent the plant from becoming thin. Never overwater this succulent; always allow it to become dry between watering and then water thoroughly until the water runs through the bottom of the plant. Provide the same drainage as you would with a cacti with a gravel base plate and if you wish place the plants outdoors during the summer in a sheltered spot where it is protected from the rain.

Amaryllis

Amaryllis bulbs can be forced into bloom during the winter months and are a colourful and easy to care for indoor plant that makes a feature on a sideboard or dining table area. Typically each stem produces approx 3-4 blooms that are funnel shaped and come in a vast array of colours such as red, pink, white and orange.  Place a single bulb in a 6-8 diameter pot as this plant like to be pot bound like many members of the lily and orchid family. Leave the top third and neck of the bulb sticking out above the soil as this ensures that any water placed into the soil will not seep into the neck of the bulb and cause rotting. Place a cane between the bulb and the edge of the pot to allow the plant to be supported during later growth.

Corn Plant

This plant is large and eye catching and features shiny glossy leaves that give a lush and tropical feel to your winter interior.  The leaves sprout from a brown textured stem much like a yucca. If cared for correctly this plant will produce a small spray of fragrant white flowers that are subtle and elegant. This plant thrives best in light shade or filtered sunlight as the leaves will scorch in direct sunlight and will be stunted and small in complete shade. The soil should be kept moist not wet and the watering should be reduced slightly during the winter months but should not be allowed to dry out completely. This plant can grow quite tall so make sure you place in an area with plenty of ceiling height.

For more inspiration on decorating your home with winter house plants, take a look at our latest Pinterest board - Pinterest - Indoor Winter Plants