Have you ever felt like your green thumb turns to stone when trying to care for plants indoors? Don’t worry; I used to feel the same way until I learned how to create the perfect environment for my indoor gardening. Choosing the right plants for specific microenvironments in your home can make all the difference.
Whether it’s a warm, humid room or a drafty corner, understanding the light requirements and locations for your houseplants is key. For instance, placing a north-facing window plant in the wrong spot can lead to failure, but finding the perfect match brings incredible success in growing healthy plants.
Some indoor plants can even survive tough conditions, tolerating low-light areas like interior walls or corners. Others thrive with medium light or brighter spots near south-facing windows.
My favorite tip is to look for labeled plants that specify their conditions—it’s a small but important factor for making sure they don’t just grow, but flourish. Start with sturdy options that are easy to care for, and soon, you’ll feel like a master of your very own indoor jungle, turning any space—no matter how tricky—into a thriving oasis.
BEST INDOOR PLANTS FOR LOW LIGHT
POTHOS (Epipremnum aureum)
When it comes to houseplants, Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is often considered one of the easiest to grow. This tropical vine can grow up to 6 to 10 feet long, making it an ideal plant to train on vertical supports or allow it to trail down from hanging baskets.
The variety of foliage colors and patterns adds a touch of elegance to any space. While light is important, Pothos is quite adaptable, thriving in indirect light conditions.
To keep this plant healthy, it’s essential to allow the top inch of soil to dry out between watering, as it doesn’t require constant moisture.
For fertilizer, Pothos are light feeders, meaning you can use a balanced liquid fertilizer every 1 to 3 months to maintain its growth. Whether you’re trimming it to keep it compact or letting it grow long, Pothos is a great addition to any home.
PHILODENDRON (Philodendron spp.)
The Philodendron is an easy-to-grow plant that thrives in a variety of environments. It prefers evenly moist soil but does not like it to be soggy. It is important to water the plant when the top inch of the soil is dry. Unlike some other houseplants, the Philodendron can be grown in low light, but it will grow faster when placed in medium to bright light.
The plant can reach vines up to 8 feet long and has a variety of sizes, shapes, and colors in its foliage. During spring through fall, applying a water-soluble houseplant fertilizer will help maintain healthy growth.
This plant is similar to pothos, another popular houseplant, and can also be grown outdoors in mild climates. It is a great addition to any room as it brings a touch of greenery and life to indoor spaces. Whether you want it to trail down from a shelf or climb a support, Philodendrons are flexible and adapt to many different conditions.
PRAYER PLANT (Calathea spp.)
The prayer plant is a popular houseplant that can grow up to 3 feet tall. It has beautiful, decorative foliage that comes in a stunning assortment of patterns, colors, and shapes.
When caring for this plant, it’s important to keep the soil evenly moist, but you should never allow it to become overly soggy or dry out completely. Sensitive to tap water, it’s best to use distilled or filtered water for watering.
During the growing season, from spring through fall, you should fertilize the prayer plant once a month. These plants don’t like their roots disturbed, so only repot in early spring if they become rootbound.
If you notice the plant getting too large or needing a change, it’s best to wait for the right time to ensure healthy growth without disturbing the roots too much. Rattlesnake, peacock, and zebra are other names for this stunning plant, adding to its charm and popularity as an indoor favorite.
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BIRD’S NEST FERN (Asplenium nidus)
The Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus) is a beautiful tropical fern that can grow up to 2 feet tall. This plant thrives in moist but not soggy soil. It’s important to water the edge of the rosette to avoid water pooling in the center, which can cause rot. If you notice yellow leaves, it’s likely due to overwatering.
A diluted houseplant fertilizer is perfect for feeding the fern, and it should be applied every 2 to 4 weeks during spring through fall. With its elegant, upright shape, the Bird’s Nest Fern makes a stunning centerpiece for a table or plant stand.
As the fronds unfurl, they add a sense of grace to any room. The plant does best in a steamy bathroom with moderate humidity and a temperature of around 70 degrees F. It’s perfect for adding a touch of green to your home, especially in places where other plants might struggle.
ZZ PLANT (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ plant is a popular semi-succulent that can grow up to 2 to 3 feet tall, making it an ideal addition to any indoor space. These plants are low-maintenance, requiring only occasional watering every couple of weeks since they store water in their stems.
Be cautious of overwatering, as it can cause more damage than underwatering, and avoid letting the soil become soggy. ZZ plants thrive in medium to bright, indirect light, and don’t need frequent fertilizing—just once every three months is enough.
Maintaining a ZZ plant is simple, thanks to its shiny and durable leaves that require little effort to keep looking fresh. You can easily clean the leaves by gently wiping them with a damp cloth to remove dust, but be careful with leaf sprays, as they can damage the foliage.
It’s important to remember that all parts of the ZZ plant are toxic, so it’s best to keep it out of reach of children and pets. With minimal care, this plant makes a striking and easy-to-maintain addition to any home.
PARLOR PALM (Chamaedorea elegans)
The parlor palm is a beautiful plant that can grow 2 to 4 feet tall and adds a lovely tropical flair to any space. It thrives well indoors, especially in dimly lit areas like foyers or offices.
To care for it, keep the soil evenly moist, watering only when the surface feels dry. Avoid overwatering, as it can harm the plant. During spring and summer, fertilize the parlor palm monthly to help it stay healthy.
Pruning is also easy. The only thing you’ll need to do is remove the lower fronds that may turn brown over time. However, avoid trimming the healthy green fronds as this will stop the plant’s growth. If you do need to prune, make sure to remove the entire stem to maintain its shape.
PEACE LILY (Spathiphyllum spp.)
The peace lily is a beautiful houseplant that typically grows from 1 to 6 feet tall. It thrives best in soil that is kept evenly moist but not soggy, and it’s important not to let the soil dry out completely.
During the winter, it’s advisable to reduce water to prevent excess moisture as growth slows down. To keep your peace lily happy, use a water-soluble fertilizer at half strength every two months.
In spring and summer, pure white spathes surround the creamy white flower spikes, creating a striking display. These flowers flourish from the middle of spring until the end of summer. Peace lilies also love warmth and humidity, making them ideal for indoor spaces. However, ensure that the plant is not exposed to temperatures below 55 degrees F to keep it healthy.
CHINESE EVERGREEN (Aglaonema spp.)
The Chinese evergreen (scientifically known as Aglaonema spp.) is a beautiful plant that typically grows to a height of 2 to 3 feet tall. It thrives in soil that is kept evenly moist but not soggy.
During the winter, it’s essential to reduce water since the plant’s growth slows down. If you notice wilted leaves, this could be a sign of underwatering, while overwatering may lead to stem rot or root rot. To keep your plant healthy, fertilize it monthly with a diluted liquid fertilizer from early spring through fall.
This plant doesn’t do well with cold temperatures and cold drafts, so avoid placing it near drafty doorways, windows, or air-conditioning vents. If your Chinese evergreen has darker green leaves, it can tolerate less light, but the variegated varieties prefer brighter light for the best growth.
CAST IRON PLANT (Aspidistra elatior)
The Cast iron plant (Aspidistra elatior) is a hardy plant that typically grows between 15 to 24 inches tall. It’s known for being impervious to neglect, making it a great choice for beginners or people with busy lifestyles.
This plant thrives in dimly lit rooms or areas with northern exposure, where other plants might struggle. It grows extremely slow, so be patient as it gradually reaches its full height.
Caring for the Cast iron plant involves watering moderately in spring, summer, and fall, but less frequently during winter. The soil should be allowed to dry between watering to prevent overwatering, which could harm the plant. It’s also recommended to fertilize it once a month from spring through fall for healthy growth. This plant’s tough-as-nails constitution makes it a resilient addition to any home.
SEE ALOS: 10 Great Plants That Look Like Lily of the Valley
BEST INDOOR PLANTS FOR MEDIUM LIGHT
FIDDLE LEAF FIG (Ficus lyrata)
The Fiddle leaf fig (or Ficus lyrata) is a stunning plant that can grow up to 10 feet tall indoors, giving your space a jungle-like atmosphere. Its slowly growing nature means it might take time to reach the ceiling, but with the right conditions, it will definitely thrive.
Being a cold-sensitive plant, it originates from tropical rainforest environments and requires a bit of care. When growing indoors, it’s important to place it near east-facing or sunny windows.
An unobstructed window will provide the perfect amount of light, but keep in mind that too much late day sun from west-facing or south-facing windows can burn its delicate leaves.
To care for your Fiddle leaf fig, make sure the soil is kept slightly dry by watering only when the top inch of the soil feels dry, especially during spring and fall. Water it more sparingly during winter, allowing the plant to rest.
Feed it monthly with a high-nitrogen fertilizer that includes essential micronutrients, but avoid feeding during the colder months. It’s essential to apply the right care to help the plant thrive, as it has a reputation for being a bit finicky. With a little attention to its needs, your Ficus lyrata will add beauty and life to any room, reaching impressive heights while filling your space with a refreshing vibe.
RUBBER PLANT (Ficus elastica)
The Rubber plant (also known as Ficus elastica) is an impressive addition to any space, growing up to 10 feet tall if allowed to thrive. It has the potential to outgrow its room, but with some careful pruning of the top and central stem, you can encourage the plant to develop more side branches while keeping its size manageable.
Keeping the plant in a smaller pot can also help curb its growth, making it easier to manage indoors.
To care for your Rubber plant, make sure to water it regularly, ensuring the soil stays moist but not waterlogged. When the soil feels slightly dry to the touch, it’s time to water.
For optimal growth, you’ll want to fertilize the plant every two weeks during the actively growing months of spring and fall, and reduce this to monthly during the winter when its growth slows. By maintaining a proper watering schedule and feeding the plant on time, you’ll help it thrive for years to come.
TRADESCANTIA (Tradescantia spp.)
Tradescantia is an easy-to-grow, trailing plant that thrives in moist soil. It can grow up to 36 inches tall and 24 inches wide, with some varieties trailing as much as 36 inches. When watering, it’s important to avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
The plant requires a balanced, liquid houseplant fertilizer every month for healthy growth. Perfect for beginners, it does well in a hanging basket or regular planter, adding a touch of beauty with its trailing stems. If it starts to look leggy, you can simply prune it by pinching the stems just above a leaf node to encourage fresh growth.
This plant is perfect for bright spots and will make a beautiful addition to any room. It’s great for those who want to add some greenery without the hassle of complicated care. Whether you’re looking for a plant for your windowsill or one to spill over the edge of a planter, Tradescantia spp. is a fantastic choice.
MONSTERA (Monstera spp.)
Monstera is a popular houseplant known for its unique, holed leaves that make it stand out in any room. This plant can grow from 3 to 20 feet tall, depending on the variety, and is ideal for adding a tropical vibe to your space. Monsteras come in various types and sizes, offering flexibility to match different growing styles and indoor decor.
They thrive when watered deeply every 1 to 2 weeks, or whenever the soil feels dry. If the leaves begin to droop, it’s a sign that the plant needs a drink. Fertilizing isn’t always necessary but can encourage more vigorous growth during spring and summer with an occasional dose of all-purpose food.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced enthusiast, the versatile nature of the Monstera makes it a great choice for any indoor space. Its ability to adapt to various environments ensures it will thrive with minimal care, while still bringing a refreshing touch to your home.
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WATERMELON PEPEROMIA (Peperomia argyreia)
Watermelon Peperomia (Peperomia argyreia) is a unique and attractive houseplant that grows about 6 to 8 inches tall. Its green-and-silver striped leaves resemble mini watermelons, adding a decorative touch to any space. This plant is perfect for beginners, as it is easy to care for and rarely needs repotting.
To care for it, moderately water the plant, allowing the soil to become dry before rewatering.Excessive watering may result in root rot; therefore, it is crucial to maintain an appropriate balance.
During the growing season, from mid-March to November, feed it with a balanced 20-20-20 liquid fertilizer monthly. In winter, when the plant’s growth slows, you can stop fertilizing.
This low-maintenance plant doesn’t mind a little neglect, making it ideal for those with a busy lifestyle. Its striking appearance with red stems and mini watermelon patterns is sure to brighten up your home.
Watermelon Peperomia thrives when given the right care, but it doesn’t require much attention once settled. Keep an eye on its watering needs, and it will thrive in almost any indoor environment.
POLKA DOT PLANT (Hypoestes phyllostachya)
The Polka Dot Plant is a charming foliage plant known for its cheery pink speckles that cover deep-green leaves. These speckles come in different colors, such as pink, white, or red dots, making it a beautiful addition to any indoor garden.
It typically grows up to 12 inches tall, but you can pinch back stems of tall or leggy plants to encourage bushier growth. To keep the plant healthy, it’s important to keep the soil moist but not soggy. Insufficient water can lead to the wilting of the leaves.
For the best results, apply diluted liquid fertilizer every two weeks during the growing season, from early spring through late summer. By following these care tips, your Polka Dot Plant will thrive and bring vibrant colors to your home.
AFRICAN VIOLET (Saintpaulia ionantha)
The African violet (Saintpaulia ionantha) is a lovely plant known for its colorful blooms. These flowers come in a variety of flower colors, including single, double, and bicolored options.
Cultivars can bloom repeatedly in spring and summer when given proper care, especially plenty of sunlight. To keep your plant healthy, water it when the soil feels slightly dry to the touch.
Be careful not to let the leaves wet as this can cause spotting. Use a specialized fertilizer every 2 to 3 weeks, following the package directions, to encourage growth and a long-lasting bloom. With enough care, you will see the plant repeatedly bloom, offering a choice of beautiful blooms for weeks.
AIR PLANT (Ficus elastica)
Air plants like Ficus elastica are unique in that they don’t need soil to thrive.They instead take in moisture and nutrients via their leaves. These plants come in different varieties, which is one reason they’re so popular among plant lovers.
Watering them is simple—just run the plants under water a few times a week. If you notice the leaves become curled more than usual, it may be time to submerge the plant in a bowl of water overnight to give it the hydration it needs.
Another interesting aspect of Ficus elastica is that, after it blooms, it will produce offshoots. These new plants can grow and develop over one to two years, making it easy to expand your collection. For best results, you should also use an epiphyte fertilizer spray weekly, following the package directions to ensure your plant gets the right nutrients.
SEE ALSO: The Ultimate Guide To Kumquat Vs Loquat: A Comprehensive Comparison
BEST INDOOR PLANTS FOR BRIGHT LIGHT
ALOCASIA (Alocasia hybrids)
Alocasia hybrids are unique tropical plants that can grow between 2 to 6 feet tall and wide, depending on the variety. To keep them healthy, it’s important to water them regularly during the growing season (from spring through fall).
The soil should remain evenly moist, but not soggy. During the winter, water less frequently. For the best results, feed your plant with a diluted liquid houseplant fertilizer about one to two times per month during spring and summer.
These plants thrive in well-lit areas, which makes them a bold focal point in any sunny room. They not only need bright light but also a humid environment to stay healthy.
You can help keep them hydrated by using a humidifier or by regularly misting the leaves. Proper care will allow your Alocasia hybrids to flourish and become an eye-catching addition to your indoor space.
SNAKE PLANT (Sansevieria spp.)
The Snake plant, also known as mother-in-law’s tongue, is a hardy houseplant that thrives with minimal care. This plant can grow between 6 to 20 inches tall and is almost impossible to kill. It is an excellent choice for anyone with a busy lifestyle, as it can withstand temperature fluctuations and even lapsing in watering.
It can store water in its leaves, which makes it very resistant to being underwatered. To care for it, simply allow the top inch of the soil to dry completely before watering. It does well in bright light but can also survive in dim lighting.
During spring and summer, if you want to boost its growth, an occasional dose of all-purpose houseplant food is recommended to encourage vigorous growth. However, fertilizing is not necessary.
The plant’s ability to store water means you don’t need to worry much about watering it frequently. Just ensure you avoid overwatering, as it prefers the soil to be allowed to dry out between waterings.
JADE PLANT (Crassula ovata)
The Jade plant (Crassula ovata), including dwarf varieties, typically grows to about 12 to 18 inches tall. It’s a hardy plant that doesn’t require much attention. Water it only when the soil has had time to dry out between waterings, especially during the winter months when it’s important to water sparingly. Too much moisture can lead to problems like stem rot or root rot.
This plant can live for many decades and is quite easy to propagate through leaf cuttings or stem cuttings. After taking the cuttings, let them dry out for a few days, then stick them into a potting mix that’s perfect for cactus and succulents. You can fertilize it occasionally with a diluted liquid fertilizer during spring and early fall to help it grow strong.
SPIDER PLANT (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plant (Chlorophytum comosum) is one of the easiest plants to care for, making it a popular choice for both beginners and experienced gardeners. It typically grows 6 to 8 inches tall, with long, cascading runners that can spread out gracefully.
To keep your plant healthy, it’s essential to water generously when the soil feels dry, but be more careful during the winter, as it doesn’t need as much water. Fertilizing monthly during the active growing season, which spans from early spring to late autumn, helps promote lush growth.
If you’re interested in propagating your spider plant, it’s simple and fun! Just cut the baby spiders from their runners, and place them in moist potting soil or a glass of water. After about a week, you should see roots form, and once they’re ready, you can pot them in fresh soil. It’s amazing to watch how quickly these little plants thrive, turning into full-grown beauties in no time!
SEE ALSO: Peony vs Azalea: Which Plant is Best for Your Garden?
KALANCHOE (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana)
The Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana) is a beautiful and compact plant, typically growing to a size of about 12 inches in height. When caring for this plant, it’s essential to water it about once a week or when the soil feels dry.
Don’t overdo it – watering should be minimal to avoid over-saturation, ensuring the plant thrives. During the spring and autumn, it is a good idea to fertilize your plants, but be careful not to feed them too much as Kalanchoes generally do not need frequent fertilizing.
One of the most impressive features of the Kalanchoe is its vibrant flowers, which can last for several weeks once they bloom. To encourage reblooming, it’s important to pinch off spent flowers and let the plant go through a rest period.
During this phase, watering should be minimal, and no fertilizing is needed. After about a month, you’ll start to notice new buds forming, signaling the beginning of another round of stunning blooms. The buds gradually begin to form, creating a refreshing burst of color.
HAWORTHIA(Haworthia spp.)
When it comes to Haworthia (Haworthia spp.), these slow-growing succulents are perfect for those looking for a plant that’s easy to maintain. They are compact and neat, growing to about 3 to 5 inches tall, making them ideal for small spaces, like narrow windowsills.
If you’re new to succulents, you’ll love how Haworthias require minimal care. These plants thrive when you allow the soil to dry completely between waterings. Overwatering can be a mistake, but when done right, they flourish without much fuss.
In summer, expect to see creamy white flowers bloom on long stems. Their striking beauty brings a touch of elegance to any room. Interestingly, Haworthias rarely need repotting, making them hassle-free.
Just use an infrequently applied slow-release product to fertilize them. Whether you’re a seasoned plant lover or a beginner, these plants will reward you with minimal effort, giving you a beautiful and enduring addition to your collection.
ALOE(Aloe vera spp.)
When it comes to Aloe vera (Aloe spp.), these plants thrive in a unique way. They generally don’t need a lot of attention, making them perfect for those who want a low-maintenance plant.
These Aloes grow to about 12 to 24 inches tall and prefer to be slightly root-bound, which can actually help promote blooming. Although Aloes don’t always bloom when grown indoors, this approach is still useful for encouraging flowers.
As for care, it’s important to water deeply, but not too often. Make sure the soil dries out completely to a depth of 1 to 2 inches between waterings. Since Aloes prefer sandy, well-drained soil, a cactus potting mix works best.
Fortunately, Aloes don’t require fertilizing, making them even easier to care for. These plants thrive when their needs are met, and they are a beautiful, low-maintenance addition to any indoor space.
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FAQS
Which plant is best to keep inside the house?
The Heart Leaf Philodendron is a vigorous vining plant perfect for your home or office. It thrives in moderate to low indirect light and adds a natural touch to any space. Keep the soil moist and occasionally mist the leaves for ideal watering.
This indoor plant is easy to care for, as it prefers indirect light and requires minimal maintenance. Its adaptability and lush greenery make it a great choice for enhancing your surroundings effortlessly.
Which plant is lucky for a bedroom?
Lucky Bamboo (Dracaena sanderiana) is a perfect addition to your bedroom. Known for its ability to purify the air and create a peaceful ambiance, it is also a key element in Feng Shui. This plant helps boost positive energy and attracts good luck, making it an ideal choice for enhancing your bedroom environment.
Which plant gives oxygen 24 hours
Areca palms are perfect for homes with limited space. These tropical plants grow tall and provide 24-hour oxygen. They’re great for indoor environments and require minimal care, making them ideal for people with little time or energy. You can even grow them from seed.
Do indoor plants need sunlight?
Indoor plants thrive best with sunlight, as it serves as food for them. Satch suggests that a fail-safe method for placing a plant is to simply put it by the window. There’s no such thing as a low light plant, as all plants need to eat sunlight to do well. The more sunlight they get, the better they will grow, so it’s important to provide them with as much as possible. Even if the space is low light, plants still require some light to survive and flourish.
Is morning sun good for indoor plants?
Morning sun tends to be superior for indoor plants compared to afternoon sunlight. The cooler temperatures in the morning help the plant dry off the dew from its leaves, which in turn reduces the chances of disease. Most plants, even those that tolerate full sun, will appreciate even a momentary break from the harsh afternoon sun. It provides a respite, giving the plant a chance to recover while still getting the light it needs.
