There are many reasons to dive into the houseplant craze. Aside from actually cleaning the air, bringing nature indoors can add a sense of vibrancy and freshness to any room, and plants come in just about every color, shape, and size to fit your style and space. Although decorating with indoor plants can be fun, options are typically limited by each plant’s needs. Check out these guidelines for the next time you need to determine where to place your indoor plants.
Knowing your plant’s lighting requirements is top priority when deciding whether it would do best soaking up the morning sun or filling out a dark corner. Hardy succulents and many actively blooming flowers need direct sunlight, making them perfect for a south- or west-facing window where many other plants would burn. Ferns prefer a darker, cooler environment with filtered light from a north- or east-facing window. Lastly, think about how your plant absorbs light; species that grow upwards (rather than outwards) typically do best lower to the ground, where the light can reach the top of the plant. If the plant appears to be reaching toward the window or other light source, it needs more exposure. If it still needs more light and it is in an otherwise ideal location, it may be a good idea to invest in a small grow lamp.
Hoyas, pothos, and other popular indoor plants tend to do well in the dry, climate controlled conditions of most homes, but it’s still good to think about the conditions of each room when placing them. Fern varieties are typically found on damp forest floors and do not appreciate being exposed to extreme temperatures or dry conditions. There are many ways to increase moisture in the air, such as misting the foliage and placing water dishes nearby, but grouping plants with similar needs together in a smaller room is a simple way to create a plant-friendly microclimate. Although temperature is much less of a worry with indoor plants than outdoor gardens, most plants prefer an environment between 65 and 85 degrees fahrenheit and do best away from drafty windows.
It’s always a good idea to prioritize a high shelf or separate room for plants that may be toxic to pets and children. For all other indoor plants, factor in how your day-to-day life may affect a plant in different areas of your home. Will it hold up to the wear and tear of a high-traffic area like an entryway? Are there curious cats around that like to munch on leaves? If you plan on traveling, moving plants a few inches back from a light source can marginally reduce how frequently it needs to be watered. Most importantly, place your indoor plants where you will remember to check on them. “Out of sight, out of mind” definitely applies here!
It’s unlikely that your plants will always be in a single location for their entire lifespan and are easy to adjust seasonally as the outdoor lighting and temperature changes. If you are looking for a new home for you and your plant collection, check out VerraWest Apartments. We offer floor plans with ample natural light and luxury amenities. Contact us to learn more.