As daylight wanes and winter settles across the United States, many Americans notice a dip in energy, motivation, and overall mood. A recent analysis by Rapid Garden POS, combining Google search trends and a survey of 1,000 adults, reveals how widespread the seasonal affective disorder (SAD) challenge is and how houseplants are emerging as a low‑cost coping tool.
Search trends highlight regional hotspots
Google data shows a sharp rise in SAD‑related searches during the colder months, with northern metros topping the list. Minneapolis ranks #1 for per‑capita SAD searches, followed closely by Cleveland and Seattle. Surprisingly, several southeastern cities—Atlanta, Orlando and Miami—also appear in the top 20, indicating that reduced sunlight and post‑holiday routines, not just temperature, drive winter mood changes.
Survey findings confirm national mood dip
The Rapid Garden POS survey, conducted in November 2025, found that two‑thirds of respondents say their mood and energy are noticeably worse in winter. Nearly one‑third (31%) believe they experience SAD or winter depression, and 60% report a decline in productivity and motivation during the season. Most respondents (61%) say their mood worsens further after the holiday season ends.
Respondents also disclosed spending an average of just two hours outdoors each day in winter, a factor that compounds the seasonal dip.
How Americans are coping
When asked about coping strategies, 46% of participants said they talk with friends or family, and another 46% turn to exercise. Seeking sunlight or spending time outdoors is used by 41%, while 37% take vitamins to support energy and mood. A notable 30% report turning to home projects or decorating as a way to brighten their environment.
Houseplants as a mood‑enhancing ally
More than half of those surveyed (57%) believe indoor plants help reduce stress or improve well‑being during the colder months, and 19% have purchased a plant specifically to boost their winter mood. On average, Americans own between two and three houseplants, with Gen Z respondents most likely to add new greenery to their homes as part of a winter wellness routine.
Search analysis mirrors these attitudes. Interest in houseplants spikes during winter, and the cities leading in plant‑related searches often overlap with those searching most for SAD support. Atlanta ranks #1 for winter houseplant queries, followed by Minneapolis and Cleveland. Other notable cities include Orlando, Seattle, St. Paul, Cincinnati and Pittsburgh.
Why indoor greenery helps
In regions with reduced daylight, earlier sunsets, and extended indoor periods, houseplants provide a simple, affordable way to introduce a touch of nature into living spaces. The presence of foliage can improve air quality, add visual brightness, and create a sense of calm—factors that collectively support emotional resilience during the darkest months.
Practical tips for winter plant care
- Choose low‑light tolerant varieties such as snake plant, pothos, or ZZ plant.
- Limit watering; most indoor plants need less moisture in cooler temperatures.
- Rotate pots periodically to ensure even light exposure.
- Consider supplemental grow lights if natural sunlight is scarce.
By integrating these easy steps, households can maximize the mood‑boosting benefits of their indoor garden.
Looking ahead
The study underscores that while winter mood challenges are a national issue, local communities can respond by promoting accessible mental‑health resources and encouraging simple wellness practices like houseplant care. As more Americans turn to greenery for comfort, city and county health departments may find value in supporting plant‑friendly initiatives in public spaces and community centers.
Original reporting: KRDO (Colorado Springs metro) — read the source article.
