Understanding Winter Light in Calgary Homes
Looking to bring new life to your space in January often starts with plants. After the holidays, rooms can feel a little tired, and greenery has a way of quietly shifting the energy of a space. Winter, however, asks for a slightly different approach, especially here in Calgary.
Our winters can be deceptively bright. We often have sunny days, but the sun sits low in the sky and daylight hours are short. What looks like plenty of light to us isn’t always the kind of sustained light plants rely on for active growth. As a result, many houseplants naturally slow down this time of year.
In January, it’s normal for plants to pause. Growth may stall, leaves often hold steady rather than push new ones, and overall energy feels quieter. This isn’t something to fix. It’s a seasonal response, much like what plants experience outdoors.
Window placement becomes especially important in winter. Cold glass can create temperature stress overnight, even in rooms that feel warm during the day. A plant that thrives near a window in summer may struggle in the same spot now. At the same time, frequent moving can also be stressful. Winter is a season for stability more than adjustment.
Calgary’s dry indoor air adds another layer. Forced air heating dries soil faster, but that doesn’t mean plants need more water. In fact, overwatering is one of the most common winter issues we see. When light is limited and growth slows, roots use water more slowly. Letting soil dry slightly between waterings is often healthier than trying to keep plants consistently moist.
If your plant looks healthy but isn’t doing much, that’s normal. Firm leaves and steady colour are good signs. Winter light in Calgary asks for patience, observation, and restraint rather than intervention.
If you’re thinking about adding plants to your home right now, January is actually a great time to do it thoughtfully. In the studio this month, we’re offering buy one plant, get the second at 50% off, making it easier to pair plants that suit similar light conditions or refresh more than one space without overdoing it. Our team is always happy to help you choose plants that will live well in Calgary homes this time of year.
