Watch: Tips From Former HGTV Gardening Star Paul James On Keeping House Plants Thriving

There are different ways to take care of your houseplants in the winter. Watering plants is typically a good thing, but in the winter months, less is more.

Former HGTV gardening star Paul James, known as “The Gardener Guy,” says when it comes to water it's possible to show plants too much love.

"That is the fastest way in the world to say goodbye to your houseplant,” James said.

He says the issue is due to a lack of humidity from turning on your heater. Aside from cacti and succulents, he says most houseplants are tropical in origin.

"When the humidity drops, the plants are going to suffer,” James said.

James suggests taking a mister and spraying the plants or using a humidifier while grouping the plants together.

Plants are actively growing from spring to fall, but this time of year their growth is put on hold.

"But when winter comes on, they tend to go dormant. So, when they're not in an active growth phase, they don't need fertilizer anymore,” James said.

Another important change is sunlight. You may have a plant in an area that used to be sunny but now the angle is different.

"Which means you might need to move your plants to a window that's a little sunnier, south or east facing window,” James said.

James says don't repot your houseplants during the winter. The plants start actively growing again in late March or early April. It's best to wait until then.

With proper care, some houseplants can last up to 20 years.

"Houseplants can have a very long life in the home,” James said.

Like people, houseplants just need a little time and patience to keep growing.