During daylight, plants use photosynthesis to convert light into energy. At night, that process stops, but plants are still active.
They continue respiration—using oxygen and releasing carbon dioxide—similar to how animals do all day. The amounts in a typical home are very small, but the principle is real.
Night physiology is still busy
Many plants also manage water differently at night. Stomata (tiny pores) can behave differently depending on species, humidity, and temperature.
If you notice leaves moving, that can be normal. Some plants reposition leaves based on light cues, a phenomenon called nyctinasty.
The practical takeaway
For plant care, the takeaway is simple: stable light, consistent watering, and avoiding overwatering matter far more than timing tricks.
Your plant is not a decoration. It is a living system running quietly in the background.