Lawn & Garden
 Indoor plants are a lovely addition to any home. View more pictures of indoor plants. |
You don’t need to limit the beauty of plants to outdoors. You can bring the freshness, color, and vitality of plants inside by growing indoor plants.
This article covers various aspects of caring for indoor plants, including lighting, watering, humidity, temperature, fertilizing, potting, grooming, propagating, decorating, preventing pests and diseases, and caring for them while on vacation.
Studies have shown that people are more relaxed, productive, and content when there are living plants around them. Tending to plants is known to have therapeutic effects that benefit both physical and mental health. Additionally, there is growing evidence that indoor plants purify common air pollutants.
Millions of indoor plants are sold across the country each year. Interior decorators often use them in every room, and home decor magazines never show a finished design without them. They are readily available in nurseries, plant stores, supermarkets, and department stores.
Growing indoor plants is not a difficult task. In fact, it can be quite simple with basic knowledge of certain techniques. Learn about using light for indoor plants in the next section.
Interested in learning about different types of indoor plants? Check out the following:
- Indoor Plants
- Full Sun Indoor Plants
- Bright Light Indoor Plants
- Filtered Light Indoor Plants
- Light Shade Indoor Plants
- Hanging Basket Indoor Plants
- Floor Plant Indoor Plants
- Table Plant Indoor Plants
- Terrarium Plant Indoor Plants
- Very Easy Indoor Plants
- Easy Indoor Plants
- Demanding Indoor Plants
- Temporary Indoor Plants
- Flowering Indoor Plants
- Climbing or Trailing Indoor Plants
- Indoor Plants with Colorful Foliage
- Fragrant Indoor Plants
- Gardening
Lighting Indoor Plants
Indoor plants rely on light the way animals rely on food: they absorb it and convert its energy into the sugars and starches they need to grow and survive. Without adequate light, no indoor plant can thrive.
Fortunately, indoor plants give us signs when they are not getting enough light. Their growth becomes pale, and they stretch towards the nearest light source. Flowering becomes weak or nonexistent. Without sufficient light, they can’t make use of the water we provide, and they eventually rot.
 Southern exposures receive full sun from late morning to mid-afternoon. |
The light requirements of different indoor plants vary. A corner that seems dark to a flowering plant may be suitable for a foliage plant. As long as there is enough light to read by, certain indoor plants can thrive in any condition.
Seasonal Differences
The intensity of light varies with the changing seasons. During winter, a south-facing window is the best location for most house plants since the light is not too intense. However, in summer, it is advisable to move plants away from the hot south or west windows or place a sheer curtain in between to avoid the glaring sun. On the other hand, a north-facing window may not receive enough light to support flowering plants during winter but is ideal for most house plants during summer. It is essential to move house plants from one location to another as per the season.
Improving Natural Light
If you notice any signs of lack of light in your house plants, you can increase their exposure to light by removing any obstacles that block the path of light, such as curtains, blinds, or outdoor foliage. Regular cleaning of windows can also help. Painting nearby walls and furniture in pale shades enhances light reflection instead of absorption, thus improving light intensity.
Artificial Light
House plants can adapt to growing under artificial light. However, incandescent lamps, even those marketed for plants, produce low-quality light that promotes weak and unhealthy growth. Fluorescent lights and halogen lamps, on the other hand, produce light quality close to sunlight, promoting healthy growth in house plants. Artificial light should be set on timers for 12-14 hours per day, and the lamp should be far enough from the plants to avoid overheating.
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Window by Window The amount of light exposure varies among the windows in your home.
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The next section will cover watering house plants.
Want to learn about house plants by type? Try these:
The list includes a variety of house plants for different lighting situations, including full sun, bright light, filtered light, light shade, hanging baskets, floor plants, table plants, terrarium plants, and more. Additionally, there are categories for easy and demanding plants, flowering and fragrant plants, and plants with colorful foliage. The section on watering house plants explains that most plants prefer soil that is evenly moist, but not soaking wet or bone dry. It is important to water thoroughly and wait until the plant needs more water before starting again. Different methods for determining when a plant needs water are discussed, including checking the soil color, feeling the soil, using a moisture meter, and lifting the pot. Watering from above and below are both options, but it is important to ensure that the plant receives enough water without being overwatered. Rainwater is often the best choice for watering house plants in areas with hard or softened water.
To keep house plants with a preference for moist soil, wicking may be a viable solution. All that is required is a water reservoir, such as an old margarine container, placed near the plant and a piece of yarn. One end of the yarn should be inserted into the potting mix, pushed down the drainage hole with a knitting needle. The other end should be inserted into the reservoir lid after punching a hole in it. After watering from the top of the pot once, the plant will absorb the required water through the wick. Maintaining the reservoir full of water or a water-fertilizer solution is crucial. This technique is ideal for those who are away often because wick-watered house plants can go without watering for weeks.
Another option is using a capillary mat, either a commercial or homemade one (old acrylic blankets or indoor/outdoor carpeting cut to fit). The mat should be placed in the saucer or tray, and the plants should be watered thoroughly from the top the first time. After that, the mat should be kept moist, and the plants will absorb water as required.
Most plants require humid air to grow. This is due to the pores they breathe through losing most of their moisture in dry air, which roots may not always be able to replace. Thin leaves require even more humidity, while thick, waxy, leathery, or hairy leaves usually resist dry air. Symptoms of dry air include curled leaves, dry leaf tips, and frequent watering needs. Dry air may also cause flower buds to fall off or turn brown.
House humidity is typically below 30 percent, while most house plants, even cacti, prefer at least 40 percent humidity. Many require 60 percent or more, and 50 to 60 percent humidity is likely ideal for both plants and humans. Regional and seasonal variations exist.
Dry air can be a persistent issue in some parts of the country, particularly in the arid Southwest. When temperatures rise, air conditioning can exacerbate this problem by drying out the air even further. In such areas, a humidifier may be necessary year-round. Similarly, in regions with cold winters, indoor humidity levels drop during the heating season as outdoor air is warmed up. Some heating systems, like electric heat, can make this problem worse by removing even more humidity from the air. In these cases, it may be necessary to use a system to compensate for low humidity during the winter months.
Air circulation is also important for indoor plants. Good ventilation helps to remove waste gases, excess heat, and prevent diseases that can develop in enclosed spaces. While windows can provide adequate air circulation due to temperature differences, it’s still important to keep the air moving constantly, especially near plant lights. A small fan can provide the necessary air movement without being directed at the plants.
Increasing humidity for indoor plants can be done in several ways. Spraying houseplants with warm water is a well-known method, but it’s not very efficient since the humidity dissipates quickly. To increase humidity through spraying, the process must be repeated several times a day. Room humidifiers are an effective way to increase humidity, and some modern homes come with built-in humidifiers that can be adjusted to the desired levels. For those who prefer a DIY approach, a plant humidifier can be easily made by filling a waterproof tray with stones, gravel, or perlite and pouring water over them. Grouping plants together during the heating season can also create good humidity levels in the surrounding air.
For delicate houseplants that require a humidity level of over 70 percent, a terrarium can be the best solution. A glass lid creates a microclimate that can raise humidity levels to almost 100 percent. If water droplets form, the lid can be opened slightly for ventilation.
In the next section, the article will discuss temperature considerations for houseplants.
The list includes various types of house plants such as those that prefer full sun, bright light, filtered light, light shade, hanging baskets, floor plants, table plants, terrarium plants, very easy, easy, demanding, temporary, flowering, climbing or trailing, colorful foliage, and fragrant. In addition, there is information on gardening.
Regarding temperature, most house plants originate from tropical and subtropical climates and thrive in temperatures similar to those found in homes, ranging from 65°F to 75°F (18°C to 24°C) during the day. They can tolerate occasional summertime highs of up to 90°F (32°C). Generally, indoor temperatures that are comfortable for humans are also suitable for house plants.
It is important to note that cooler nighttime temperatures of 5°F to 10°F (3°C to 5°C) can promote healthier growth for house plants, especially tropical ones. This can be achieved by turning down the thermostat at night or placing the plants near a cooler window. However, extreme heat can be harmful, and ventilation, air conditioning, and humidity control may be necessary.
Subtropical plants forced into winter bloom in cool greenhouses require cooler temperatures and can be placed near a cool window or in a slightly heated room. Creating a mini-greenhouse using clothes hangers and plastic can also help to provide cooler temperatures.
The article concludes by offering links to different types of house plants for further reading.
Fertilizing Indoor Plants
Feeding and fertilizing indoor plants are not the same things. Fertilizers do not provide energy to plants; instead, light does. Hence, if a plant is not getting enough light or is not growing well, fertilizing can be counterproductive. After repotting or acquiring a new indoor plant, it is best not to fertilize for a few months to allow the plant to use up the existing nutrients in the growing mix.
 Fertilizing is especially crucial for indoor plants growing in soilless potting mixes. |
Three major elements are necessary for healthy plant growth: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). These elements are listed on fertilizer labels as ratios such as 6-12-4, meaning that it contains 6% nitrogen, 12% phosphorus, and 4% potassium. Fertilizers also contain minor elements such as magnesium, boron, and iron, which are essential for plant growth.
Fertilizers rich in nitrogen (the first number) encourage healthy foliage growth, while those rich in phosphorus (the second number) promote root development and better flowering. Potassium-rich fertilizers (the third number) help build up reserves for dormant plants.
For foliage indoor plants, a 30-20-20 fertilizer is recommended as it is rich in nitrogen. For flowering indoor plants, a 15-30-15 fertilizer is better as it is rich in phosphorus. An all-purpose or high-nitrogen fertilizer is suitable for most foliage indoor plants, while those with a high proportion of phosphorus are best for flowering indoor plants.
Continuous Fertilization
Since soilless potting mixes contain few nutrients, regular fertilization is vital for most indoor plants. One way to ensure that indoor plants receive the necessary nutrients is by using a continuous feed method.
Take a liquid or water-soluble fertilizer recommended for monthly use and reduce its dosage by four. For example, if the label states that one teaspoon per gallon should be applied once a month, apply ¼ teaspoon per gallon at every watering. Once a month, carefully leach the plant by running clear water through its pot until the excess fertilizer drains away. This helps prevent the buildup of fertilizer.
Choosing Fertilizers for Indoor Plants
Ready-to-use liquid fertilizers are convenient but expensive since they contain water. Water-soluble fertilizers are as effective and more economical since the user adds water. Slow-release fertilizers are also an option for some people. They are available in granular form to be mixed with soil or in spikes and tablets to be inserted into the potting mix. They only need to be applied once every few months, as suggested by the fertilizer label.
Organic vs. Chemical Fertilizers
Both organic and chemical fertilizers come in various concentrations. Since chemical fertilizers used for indoor plants do not escape into the environment, even those who use only organic fertilizers outdoors often use chemical ones for their indoor plants without hesitation.
Liquid seaweed is a popular organic fertilizer that is applied as a foliar spray and absorbed by the leaves of plants. House plants can be cared for with simple tools such as a spoon for repotting, scissors for cutting off yellowing leaves, a sharp knife for taking cuttings, and a watering can with a long narrow spout. The next section discusses potting house plants. House plants should be repotted at least once a year, preferably in the spring. Signs that a house plant needs repotting include wilting a few days after watering, threatening to tip over, and a white or yellowish crust building up on the stem and pot rim. Plants that are difficult to repot should be top-dressed annually by scraping off the top inch of potting mix and replacing it with new mix. To repot a plant, tip it upside down, remove up to one third of the potting mixture, trim off any dead or damaged roots, and choose a clean pot no more than one or two sizes larger. Fill the pot with growing mix and water thoroughly.
When repotting house plants, keep them out of direct sunlight for a week or two. Hydroculture is a soil-free method of growing plants in water with an inert medium like clay pellets or pebbles. Water level indicators and slow-release pellets or tablets provide nutrients. Plastic pots are best for plants that like moist soil, while clay pots allow water to evaporate for plants that prefer drier soil. All pots should have drainage holes. Ready-made potting mixes of peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite are ideal for most house plants. Cacti and succulents do well in soil-based mixes, while orchids and Venus fly-traps prefer fast-draining mixes like sphagnum moss or bark chips. Grooming your plants is important, and simple things like removing dead leaves can greatly improve the appearance of your plants.
Plants have a natural tendency to grow towards the light, which can cause them to become lopsided or even fall over. To prevent this, rotate the plant a quarter turn each time you water it so that it receives light from all sides and grows symmetrically. It’s also important to remove any dead or yellowing plant parts to improve the plant’s appearance and prevent the spread of insects and diseases. To keep dust and grease from accumulating and slowing growth, clean the leaves once or twice a year with a soft cloth or by placing them under a warm rain shower. Pruning can help make the plant look fuller and more attractive, and staking may be necessary if a stem becomes too heavy to support itself. Propagating house plants can be a fun challenge for enthusiasts who want to renew their plants or give them as gifts. Stem cuttings are one way to propagate plants, and there are different methods for different types of house plants.
Stem cuttings are a popular way to propagate plants and can be used on any plant with visible stems. Choose a healthy stem with at least three nodes and cut it cleanly just below the lowest node. Remove any flowers or leaves growing from the bottom node and consider applying rooting hormone to stimulate faster rooting. Rooting can be done in water, but it’s best to use soilless growing media, vermiculite, sand, or perlite. Insert the cutting into a hole prepared with a pencil and cover at least one node with mix. Cover the container with a clear plastic bag to maintain high humidity and place in bright light but not full sun. Once the cutting is well-rooted, remove the plastic and treat it like an adult plant. Succulents and cacti should be allowed to heal before being potted. Leaf cuttings are easy to propagate and only a few plants can be reproduced this way. For layering, bend a stem to the ground and cover a section of it with soil. When roots form, cut the stem from the mother plant and pot it separately.
This guide explains different methods of propagating house plants. For plants with trailing stems or those that produce baby plants on stolons, simply set a pot filled with moist growing mix under a section of stem and pin it down to the mix with a hairpin or twist tie. When the attached section has rooted, cut it free from the mother plant and grow it on its own. Some examples of plants that can be propagated by this method are hare’s foot ferns, episcias, pothos, Boston ferns, and strawberry begonias.
The air layering method is used on trees or shrub-like plants with thick or woody stems that are hard to root from stem cuttings. Make a cut halfway through the main stem, about one third of the way down from the growing tip, and insert a sliver of wood or a match into the cutting to prevent it from healing over. Apply rooting compound to the cut and cover it with moist sphagnum moss and plastic wrap. Check the moss every week and add water if it dries out. When roots have formed, pot the new plant in an individual pot and treat it as an adult plant.
Plants that grow in clumps are best propagated by division. Remove the plant from its pot and break the rootball up into sections, each with at least one rooted stem. Plant the divisions in individual pots. Some plants produce offsets, which are baby plants at the base of the mother plant. Cut these free from the mother plant when they reach about one third of their size. If they are well rooted, treat them as any newly potted plant. If not, treat them as cuttings.
Almost all house plants can be grown from seed, although seeds may be hard to come by. It is easiest to buy them from seed companies, but some plants will also produce seeds on their own. Sprinkle the seeds over the surface of a moist growing medium and press lightly. Large seeds should be covered with a thin layer of potting mix. Cover the container and place it in a warm, brightly lit spot. When plantlets appear and have formed at least four true leaves, harden them off and pot them individually in small pots. Some plants easily propagated by seed are asparagus ferns, begonias, primroses, and parlor palms.
The article also includes a section on decorating with house plants and provides links to learn about different types of house plants.
The list includes various types of house plants, such as those suited for full sun, bright light, filtered light, light shade, hanging baskets, the floor, tables, and terrariums. There are also categories based on difficulty level, such as very easy, easy, demanding, and temporary plants. Additionally, there are sections for flowering plants, climbing or trailing plants, plants with colorful foliage, fragrant plants, and gardening.
When it comes to decorating with house plants, they can add coziness and depth to any space. Even if a plant doesn’t grow well in a particular spot, it can be moved around to create the desired effect. Flowering plants need more light than foliage plants, but they can still be used decoratively when not in bloom. Dish gardens and terrariums are also great options for creating miniature gardens with a mix of plants. To prevent pests and diseases, it’s important to take proper care of your house plants.
The list includes various types of house plants such as hanging basket, floor plant, and table plant house plants, among others. Additionally, the chart provides a guide to identify and treat plant symptoms caused by cultural practices, insects, or diseases. Pale growth, wilted foliage, slow growth, and lack of blooms are some of the symptoms and their corresponding causes and treatments. Moreover, the article advises using appropriate pesticides to treat pests and diseases, and organic pesticides are preferred for indoor environments. The chart also provides a guide to identify and treat plant conditions caused by pests.
The article provides information on house plant insects and other pests. It includes a table that lists the symptoms, causes, and treatments of various plant problems caused by spider mites, mealybugs, scale insects, aphids, whiteflies, thrips, cyclamen mites, springtails, and fungus gnats. The article also mentions that some plant conditions may be caused by diseases and provides a chart to help identify symptoms and treatments.
The article discusses house plant diseases and their symptoms, causes, and treatments. White and gray mold, leaf spots, and root or stem rot are among the diseases that can affect house plants. Improving air circulation, avoiding moistening foliage when watering, and using appropriate fungicides can help prevent and treat these diseases. Using pasteurized potting mixes and isolating new plants can also help prevent insect and disease problems. The article also provides tips for vacation care for house plants, including using watering systems and leaving plants in sealed terrariums. If plants require regular care and cannot survive on their own, there are last-minute tricks that can be tried to keep them alive during prolonged absences. The article also includes links to learn about different types of house plants.
To keep your plants healthy while you’re away, start by placing them in a shady spot and removing any flowers and buds to reduce their water needs. Although plants generally don’t like waterlogged soil, they can tolerate occasional flooding, so submerge them in a deep tray of water. After this treatment, most plants can survive for at least three weeks without additional watering.
If you have delicate plants, you can cover them with plastic while you’re away. This will prevent water from evaporating and allow them to go without care for over a month.
Alternatively, you can ask a knowledgeable neighbor to care for your plants once or twice a week.
If you’re interested in learning more about different types of house plants, check out our selection, which includes full sun, bright light, hanging basket, and fragrant varieties, among others.
Larry Hodgson is a garden writer based in Quebec City who has written numerous books on gardening, including Houseplants for Dummies and Ortho’s Complete Guide to Houseplants. He has won several awards for his work, including the Perennial Plant Association’s 2006 Garden Media Award.
FAQ
1. What are some general tips for caring for house plants?
Caring for house plants involves providing them with proper lighting, watering, and fertilizing. It is important to research the specific needs of each plant as they can vary greatly. Some general tips include not overwatering, providing adequate drainage, and monitoring for pests.
2. How often should I water my house plants?
The frequency of watering your house plants depends on the type of plant, size of the pot, and the environment it is in. Generally, it is best to wait until the soil is dry to the touch before watering. Overwatering can lead to root rot and other problems, so it is important to not water too frequently.
3. What type of soil is best for house plants?
House plants thrive in well-draining soil that is rich in nutrients. A good mix for house plants consists of peat moss, perlite, and vermiculite. It is important to choose a potting mix that is appropriate for the specific type of plant you have.
4. How much light do house plants need?
The amount of light needed for house plants varies depending on the specific plant. Some plants require direct sunlight, while others prefer indirect light. It is important to research the specific needs of your plant and place it in an area where it will receive the appropriate amount of light.
5. How do I fertilize my house plants?
Fertilizing is important for providing your house plants with the necessary nutrients for growth. It is best to use a balanced fertilizer and follow the instructions on the package for the appropriate amount and frequency of application. Be careful not to over-fertilize as this can lead to burning the roots.
6. How do I prune my house plants?
Pruning is important for maintaining the shape and health of your house plants. It is best to use sharp, clean tools and make cuts at a 45-degree angle. Prune away any dead or damaged leaves and stems regularly to encourage new growth.
7. How do I repot my house plants?
Repotting is necessary when your house plant outgrows its current pot. It is best to choose a pot that is one size larger and has drainage holes. Gently remove the plant from its current pot and loosen the roots before placing it in the new pot with fresh soil.
8. What are some common pests that affect house plants?
Some common pests that affect house plants include spider mites, mealybugs, and scale insects. It is important to monitor your plants regularly for signs of infestation and treat them promptly with an appropriate insecticide.
9. What is the best way to clean my house plants?
Cleaning your house plants is important for removing dust and debris that can accumulate on the leaves and hinder their ability to absorb light. Use a damp cloth or sponge to gently wipe down the leaves and avoid getting water on the soil or in the crown of the plant.
10. What are some warning signs that my house plant is unhealthy?
Some warning signs that your house plant is unhealthy include yellowing leaves, drooping stems, and stunted growth. It is important to monitor your plants regularly and address any issues promptly to prevent further damage.
11. How do I winterize my house plants?
Winterizing your house plants involves providing them with the appropriate amount of light, temperature, and humidity during the colder months. It is important to research the specific needs of your plant and make adjustments as necessary, such as moving them closer to a window or using a humidifier.
Brody is a skilled craftsman and gardening expert. From renovating living spaces to cultivating lush gardens, Brody’s knowledge and passion shine through, inspiring readers to embark on their own home improvement and gardening journeys with confidence.
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