Houseplants add color and texture to a space while introducing a laid-back vibe. Decorating your home with houseplants can make the area feel cozy and relaxing. Choosing the right houseplants can be challenging, so here is what you need to know to select the best houseplants for your space.
Get to Know the Space
Sunlight, humidity, and temperature impact houseplants, and these conditions must align with the plant’s needs. Evaluate your space to determine how much light is available and the dampness of the air. Also, consider the placement of furniture and vents. When all else fails, you can make some changes to make a space a better fit for a specific plant.
Understanding Sunlight
Sunlight is broken down by low, medium, and bright. Low-light houseplants do well near a north-facing window or on the opposite side of a room from sunny south-facing windows. Plants that need medium light prefer to be close to an east-facing window or several feet away from a south- or west-facing window. Bright light is available within a few feet of a south- or west-facing window. Be careful of direct sunlight, which will burn most plants, even those with increased light needs.
Grow lights make it possible to increase the light in dim areas to transform a naturally inhospitable spot into the perfect home for a plant. The tone of the light can be adjusted to provide the ideal care for the plant and often emits light that looks similar to a regular lamp. Most grow lights have timers so you can schedule the fixture to turn on and off, ensuring the plant receives the proper amount of light. You can also purchase bulbs that fit into existing lamps or light fixtures to have the advantage of a grow light without sacrificing your home decor style.
Humidity Needs
Humidity is a measure of the moisture in the air, and it’s often described as above average, average, or below average. Plants from tropical rainforests, like hoya, crave above-average humidity, while desert dwellers, like echeveria, need below-average humidity. Climate affects humidity, but other factors, like available sunlight and the season, also impact the humidity. The humidity changes throughout the year and can even fluctuate throughout a home, so it may be unnecessary to worry about the humidity at certain times. You can use a humidifier to increase the dampness if you notice signs of dry air damaging houseplants.
Temperature
Most houseplants are tropical or from desert climates, so they need warm temperatures. The temperature inside most homes is warm enough for houseplants, but heating or cooling vents can be problematic. Very warm or cool air blowing directly on a plant may cause damage. Ensure plants are not placed in the direct path of heating or cooling vents or air conditioner units. Also, keep the plants away from drafty windows and exterior doors, especially in cold climates during the winter.
Get Growing
Understanding your space makes it possible to select the perfect houseplant for your home. All houseplants need specific amounts of sunlight and humidity, and the temperature also impacts plant health. Choosing a houseplant based on your space will ensure your plant thrives and you can enjoy its leafy good looks.
