Houseplant hacks: Are windowsills too cold for plants in winter?
It may be flooded with light, but that window ledge is only a pane of glass away from the elements. What’s the best way to protect your plants?
TL;DR
- Windowsills can become extremely cold in winter, especially with heavy curtains, creating a "cooler box" area around plants.
- Tropical plants like anthuriums and philodendrons are sensitive to cold and temperature fluctuations, which can be fatal.
- To protect plants, move them away from the glass overnight and return them to their brighter position in the morning.
- Using a thermometer can help determine how cold the windowsill actually gets.
- Preventing foliage from touching the cold glass can reduce leaf damage.
- Hardier plants like cacti may tolerate staying on the windowsill, while more delicate tropicals benefit from being moved.