Lawn & Garden
 House plants are a great way to add beauty to your home. Check out more pictures of house plants. |
You don’t have to limit your love of gardening to outdoor spaces. House plants allow you to bring the color, freshness, and vitality of plants inside your home.
This article covers various aspects of house plant care, including lighting, watering, humidity, temperature, fertilizing, potting, grooming, propagating, decorating, pest and disease prevention, and vacation care. Scientific studies have shown that living plants have a calming effect on people and can enhance physical and mental well-being. They also filter pollutants from the air. With millions of house plants sold every year, they are easy to find at nurseries, plant stores, supermarkets, and department stores. Growing house plants indoors is easy with the right knowledge and techniques.
Read on to learn about lighting house plants.
To learn about house plants by type, check out:
- House Plants
- Full Sun House Plants
- Bright Light House Plants
- Filtered Light House Plants
- Light Shade House Plants
- Hanging Basket House Plants
- Floor Plant House Plants
- Table Plant House Plants
- Terrarium Plant House Plants
- Very Easy House Plants
- Easy House Plants
- Demanding House Plants
- Temporary House Plants
- Flowering House Plants
- Climbing or Trailing House Plants
- House Plants with Colorful Foliage
- Fragrant House Plants
- Gardening
How to Light House Plants
Light is essential for plant growth and survival as it is needed to produce sugars and starches. Without enough light, plants will not thrive. Signs of insufficient light include pale growth and stretching toward the nearest light source, weak or nonexistent flowering, and rot caused by inadequate water usage. Different house plants have varying light requirements, with some thriving even in dark corners. As long as there is enough light to read by, certain house plants will flourish.
 Southern exposures get full sun from late morning to mid-afternoon. |
Seasonal Variations
The intensity of light differs depending on the season. During winter, a south window, which might be too strong for many foliage house plants in summer, is the best location for most house plants. During summer, move plants away from hot south or west windows or place a sheer curtain between them and the scorching sun. On the other hand, a north window might not receive sufficient light for flowering house plants in winter, but almost all house plants will flourish in its cool brightness during summer. Do not hesitate to relocate house plants from one place to another according to the season.
Enhancing Natural Light
If your house plants show signs of insufficient light, you can boost the intensity they receive by eliminating any obstructions that hinder the path of light, such as curtains, blinds, and outdoor foliage. Even cleaning the windows regularly will help. Another simple way to improve light is to paint nearby walls and furniture in light colors so that they reflect light instead of absorbing it.
Artificial Light
House plants can adapt well to growing under artificial light. However, incandescent lamps, even those recommended for plants, produce low-quality light that leads to weak and unhealthy growth. They are only suitable for house plants that receive some natural light. In contrast, fluorescent lights and halogen lamps produce light that is so similar in quality to sunlight that house plants will thrive under them. For the best results, use artificial light on timers set for 12- to 14-hour days, and make sure the lamps are far enough away from the plants to avoid overheating.
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Window by Window The light exposure varies among the windows in your home.
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In the following section, we will discuss watering house plants.
Want to learn about house plants by type? Check these out:
The list includes various types of house plants such as those that require 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, with colorful foliage, and fragrant. When watering house plants, it is important to keep the soil evenly moist, but not soaking wet or bone dry. Wait until the plant needs more water before watering thoroughly with tepid water straight from the tap or rainwater. To tell if a plant needs water, check it every two or three days and stick a finger into the mix. Most people prefer to water from above until excess moisture runs out of the pot. Alternatively, water from below by filling the saucer with water and waiting about 20 minutes. Pour out any excess water if necessary.
If your house plants require constant moisture in their soil, wicking is a simple solution. All you need is a water reservoir, such as an old margarine container, and a piece of yarn. Insert one end of the yarn into the potting mix, pushing it down through a drainage hole with a knitting needle. Make a hole in the lid of the reservoir and insert the other end of the yarn. Water once from the top of the pot to allow the water to soak through the wick. Then, the plant will absorb water through the wick as needed, and the reservoir should always be filled with water or a water-fertilizer solution. This method is perfect if you’re often away as wick-watered house plants can go without watering for weeks.
You can also use a capillary mat, which can be either commercially available or homemade from old acrylic blankets or pieces of indoor/outdoor carpeting. Cut the mat to fit the saucer or a large tray for a collection of house plants. Water thoroughly from the top the first time, then keep the mat moist, and the plants will absorb water from the matting when needed.
Most plants require humid air to thrive because their pores lose most of their moisture when the surrounding air is dry. Thick, leathery, or waxy leaves are usually immune to dry air, while thinner leaves need humidity. Dry air symptoms include curled leaves, dry leaf tips, and a need for frequent watering. Low humidity can also cause flower buds to turn brown or drop off. You can increase humidity by spraying house plants with water or using a humidifier. Most house plants prefer humidity levels of at least 40 percent, and some require 60 percent or more. Relative humidity of 50 to 60 percent is ideal for both house plants and people.
Dry air can be a persistent issue in certain parts of the country, especially in the dry Southwest, where air conditioning can exacerbate the problem during periods of extreme heat. In such areas, it may be necessary to use a humidifier year-round. In regions with cold winters, the indoor humidity levels can decrease during the heating season since the relative humidity of cold outdoor air drops as it warms up. Some heating systems, such as electric heat, can worsen the situation by removing more moisture from the air. In such cases, it’s advisable to use some sort of system to counteract low humidity during the winter months.
Air circulation is also crucial for indoor plants as it helps remove excess heat, ventilate waste gases, and prevent diseases. While large windows often provide adequate air circulation due to temperature differences between day and night, it’s wise to use a small fan to keep the air constantly moving, especially in areas without adequate air circulation, such as under plant lights. However, avoid directing the fan directly on the plants.
There are various easy ways to increase humidity levels indoors, such as using a room humidifier, which should be regularly filled up. Some modern houses have built-in humidifiers that can be adjusted to the desired humidity level. Alternatively, you can build your own plant humidifier by filling a waterproof tray with stones, gravel, or perlite and pouring water over them so that the bottom ones rest in water while the upper ones stay dry. By keeping the tray constantly half-filled with water, you can create a nicely humid microclimate. Grouping together house plants with moderate humidity needs during the heating season can also increase humidity levels since each plant gives off humidity through transpiration.
For delicate, thin-leaved house plants that require a humidity level of over 70 percent, a terrarium can be the best solution if it’s impossible to maintain such levels in a large room. A terrarium, made from an old aquarium and fitted with a glass lid, creates a microclimate that increases humidity levels to almost 100 percent. Simply open it slightly for ventilation if water droplets form.
This is a list of different types of house plants, including those that require full sun, bright light, filtered light, light shade, hanging baskets, floor plants, table plants, terrarium plants, very easy plants, easy plants, demanding plants, temporary plants, flowering plants, climbing or trailing plants, plants with colorful foliage, and fragrant plants. There is also information about the ideal temperature for house plants, which should be between 65° to 75°F (18° to 24°C) during the day and 5° to 10°F (3° to 5°C) cooler at night. Extreme heat can be harmful, but ventilation, air conditioning, and mini-greenhouses can help regulate temperature. Humidity may also need to be increased in dry climates. The article concludes with a list of house plants categorized by type.
Caring for House Plants with Fertilizers
It is important to understand that fertilizing and feeding are not the same for plants. Fertilizers do not provide energy to plants, but light does. Fertilizing is only helpful when plants receive enough light and are growing well. Newly purchased or repotted house plants should not be fertilized for a few months to allow them to use up the nutrients already present in their soil.
 Fertilizers are crucial for plants growing in soilless potting mixes. |
Plants need three important elements for healthy growth: nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). These elements are always listed on fertilizer labels in the form of ratios, for example, 6-12-4 means 6% nitrogen, 12% phosphorus, and 4% potassium. In addition, most fertilizers also include minor elements such as magnesium, boron, and iron that are essential for plant growth.
Nitrogen-rich fertilizers (the first number) promote healthy foliage growth while phosphorus-rich fertilizers (the second number) encourage root development and enhance flowering. Potassium-rich fertilizers (the third number) help plants build up reserves during dormant periods.
For foliage house plants, a fertilizer with a high nitrogen ratio, such as 30-20-20, is recommended for leaf development. For flowering house plants, a fertilizer with a higher phosphorus ratio, such as 15-30-15, is more appropriate. However, most foliage house plants can thrive with an all-purpose or high-nitrogen fertilizer, while a high proportion of phosphorus is best for flowering house plants.
Constant Feeding
Today, most plants are grown in soilless potting mixes that provide little nutrients, thus making regular fertilizing essential. A constant feed method is an effective way to ensure that house plants receive the necessary nutrients.
Simply use a liquid or water-soluble fertilizer recommended for monthly application, and reduce its dosage by four. For instance, if the label recommends one teaspoon per gallon once a month, use 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. This helps prevent fertilizer buildup.
Selecting Fertilizers for House Plants
Ready-to-use liquid fertilizers are convenient but expensive, as you pay for the water they contain. Water-soluble fertilizers are equally efficient, available in powder or crystal forms, and more economical since you add the water yourself.
Slow-release fertilizers are also practical for some people. They come in granule form, which can be mixed with the soil, or in spikes and tablets, which can be pushed into the potting mix. They only need to be applied every few months, as suggested on the fertilizer label.
Organic vs. Chemical Fertilizers
Both organic and chemical fertilizers come in various concentrations. Chemical fertilizers are acceptable for indoor plants, as they do not leach into the outside environment. Even people who only use organic fertilizers outdoors may use chemical fertilizers for their indoor plants.
Liquid seaweed is a well-known organic fertilizer that is sprayed onto the plants’ leaves. House plants do not require expensive gardening tools, as simple kitchen utensils such as scissors, a spoon, and a sharp knife can be used for repotting, cutting yellowing leaves, and taking cuttings. A good watering can with a long and narrow spout is the most important tool for proper plant care. The next section will discuss potting house plants.
House plants should be repotted at least once a year, preferably in spring. Fast-growing plants may require repotting two or more times a year. Wilting only a few days after watering is a sign that a house plant needs repotting. Plants should also be repotted when they become top-heavy or when a white or yellowish crust forms on the stem and pot rim, indicating an excess of mineral salts. For tree-sized plants that are difficult to repot, top-dressing annually by scraping off the top inch of potting mix and replacing it with new mix is recommended.
To repot a plant, hold its stem and rootball firmly and tip it upside down. If it does not come out on its own, run a knife around the inside of the pot to loosen the rootball. Remove up to one third of the original potting mixture from all around the rootball, and gently tease it loose with a pencil or finger. Trim off any dead or damaged roots. Choose a clean pot no more than one or two sizes larger than the previous one for repotting, or do not increase the pot size if the plant has reached its full size. Pour enough potting mix into the bottom of the new pot to bring the plant up to its original height, center it well, and fill in the empty space with growing mix. Thorough watering will help the plant adjust to its new home.
If you want to learn more about house plants by type, you can try the different categories: House Plants, Full Sun House Plants, Bright Light House Plants, Filtered Light House Plants, Light Shade House Plants, Hanging Basket House Plants, Floor Plant House Plants, Table Plant House Plants, Terrarium Plant House Plants, Very Easy House Plants, Easy House Plants, Demanding House Plants, Temporary House Plants, Flowering House Plants, Climbing or Trailing House Plants, House Plants with Colorful Foliage, Fragrant House Plants, and Gardening.
If you have recently repotted your house plants, it is important to keep them away from intense sunlight for one or two weeks.
Hydroculture
Soil is not essential for the healthy growth of house plants. As long as their roots receive oxygen and moisture, they can thrive. Hydroculture is a method of growing plants in water, using an inert medium such as pebbles or clay pellets as a base. A water level indicator helps determine when to add water, which is usually only required every few weeks. Nutrients are supplied in slow-release pellets or tablets. Although it is possible to move rooted plants to hydroculture by washing their roots thoroughly, it is easier to start with cuttings. Hydroculture kits are available for all plant sizes.
The Right Pot for the Job
Plastic and other non-porous pots retain moisture and are suitable for house plants that require evenly moist soil. Plants that prefer drier soil will do better in clay pots, which allow water to evaporate and reduce the risk of over-watering. All pots should have drainage holes to remove excess water. Decorative pots without drainage holes can be used, but only as outer containers.
Potting Mixes for House Plants
Most house plants do well in ready-made, all-purpose potting mixes. These soilless mixes contain peat moss, vermiculite, and perlite in varying proportions. They are lightweight and well-aerated, yet retain moisture, making them ideal for plant growth. This potting mix is suitable for plants such as asparagus ferns, caladiums, Boston ferns, and others. Soil-based mixes are heavier and drain more quickly, making them ideal for cacti and succulents. Certain indoor plants, such as cattleya orchids and Venus flytraps, require well-aerated mixes, such as sphagnum moss, bark chips, or special epiphyte mixes.
The next section will discuss optimal temperature for house plants.
Want to learn about house plants by type? Try these:
- House Plants
- Full Sun House Plants
- Bright Light House Plants
- Filtered Light House Plants
- Light Shade House Plants
- Hanging Basket House Plants
- Floor Plant House Plants
- Table Plant House Plants
- Terrarium Plant House Plants
- Very Easy House Plants
- Easy House Plants
- Demanding House Plants
- Temporary House Plants
- Flowering House Plants
- Climbing or Trailing House Plants
- House Plants with Colorful Foliage
- Fragrant House Plants
- Gardening
Grooming House Plants
Basic plant care involves simple grooming, which can transform an unattractive plant into a stunning one. Unfortunately, it is often neglected. Here are some tips to improve your plant’s appearance:
The Quarter Turn
Rotate your plant by 90 degrees every time you water it. This ensures that all parts of the plant receive equal amounts of light.
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Naturally, plants grow toward the light and can become lopsided or fall over if they don’t receive light from all sides. To prevent this, rotate the plant a quarter turn each time you water it. This will result in a symmetrical plant.
Cleaning House Plants
It’s important to remove dead and yellowing parts of the plant to prevent insects and diseases from spreading. Use scissors to snip off dying leaves and flowers and to trim brown leaf tips. To prevent dust and grease buildup, clean leaves with a soft cloth dipped in soapy water or put them under a warm shower or rain.
Pruning House Plants
Prune unattractive sections of the plant to make it look fuller. Pinch soft new growth between your thumb and forefinger to promote branching. Proper pruning and a regular quarter turn can prevent the need for staking.
Propagating House Plants
Many plant enthusiasts enjoy multiplying their plants. Not all methods apply to every plant, but all can be propagated in one way or another. Stem cuttings are one method.
Types of House Plants
There are many types of house plants to choose from based on light and care requirements. Try selecting from the list provided to find the perfect plant for your home.
Stem cuttings are a popular way to propagate plants, and can be used for any plant with noticeable stems. To do this, select a healthy section of 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 using a rooting hormone to stimulate faster rooting. Pasteurized rooting mix such as soilless growing media, vermiculite, sand, or perlite is best for rooting, and should be moistened lightly. Put the cutting in a pencil-prepared hole, with at least one node covered. Cover the container with a clear plastic bag to maintain high humidity, and keep the cutting in bright light.
Once the plant is well rooted and growing on its own, treat it like an adult plant. The rest of the stem can also be cut up into sections and rooted, but make sure not to invert them. Cuttings of succulents and cacti should be allowed to heal over before being potted, and should not be covered with plastic.
Leaf cuttings are an easy way to propagate a few plants, and can be done by breaking off a whole leaf, including its stalk, and inserting it into the rooting medium. One or more new plantlets will soon sprout at the leaf’s base, which can be potted individually when they are well rooted. For some plants, even a small leaf section can be rooted.
Another method of propagation is layering.
This article discusses different methods of propagating house plants. Trailing plants or those that produce baby plants on stolons can be propagated by placing a pot filled with moist growing mix under a section of stem and pinning it down until it has rooted. Examples of plants that can be propagated this way include hare’s foot ferns, episcias, pothos, Boston ferns, and strawberry begonias. Air layering is a method used on trees or shrub-like plants with thick or woody stems. It involves making a cut halfway through the main stem, applying rooting compound, covering it with moist sphagnum moss and plastic, and checking it weekly until roots have formed. Plants that grow in clumps are best propagated by division. Offsets, or baby plants at the base of the mother plant, can also be cut free and potted as newly potted plants. House plants can also be grown from seed, although it is easier to buy them from seed companies. Some examples of plants easily propagated by seed include asparagus ferns, begonias, primroses, and parlor palms. The article also includes a section on decorating with house plants and offers links to learn about different types of house plants.
The list includes various types of house plants such as hanging basket plants, floor plants, table plants, terrarium plants, and more. House plants are not only decorative but also create a cozy atmosphere and make the space look larger or smaller depending on the need. It’s almost impossible to imagine a decor without at least a few house plants in the right spots. To keep the plants healthy and attractive, they can be moved around to the spots where they look the best, rather than where they grow well. Flowering plants need more light than foliage types and can be placed anywhere in the home while in bloom. Dish gardens and terrariums can be created with small foliage plants, flowering plants, cacti, and succulents. Trailing and bushy plants mixed with upright ones can create a decorative effect. Glass terrariums can be used for delicate plants to hide their pots in decorative mulch. Any unattractive plant can be easily replaced without disturbing other plants. To prevent pests and diseases in house plants, keep reading.
The list contains various types of house plants, such as hanging basket plants, floor plants, terrarium plants, and more. Additionally, the chart provides information on how to identify and treat plant symptoms caused by cultural practices, such as insufficient light or lack of water. Furthermore, the article advises using appropriate pesticides to treat pests and diseases and emphasizes the importance of using organic pesticides in an indoor environment. Finally, there is a chart that helps identify and treat plant conditions caused by pests.
The article provides a chart that explains the symptoms, causes, and treatments of various pests that could affect house plants. Spider mites, mealybugs, scale insects, aphids, whiteflies, and thrips are some of the pests that could cause damage to the plants. The chart also includes information about how to treat the diseases caused by cyclamen mites and springtails. The article suggests using insecticidal soap and rubbing alcohol to get rid of the pests. In some cases, it may be necessary to remove severely infected plants. Additionally, the article notes that letting the soil dry out between waterings can discourage fungus gnats and sand flies, which are relatively harmless to indoor plants.
The article discusses common diseases that affect house plants, their symptoms, causes, and treatments. White and gray mold, leaf spot, and root or stem rot are some of the diseases that can be treated with improved air circulation, appropriate fungicides, and careful watering. It is recommended to use pasteurized potting mixes and isolate new plants to avoid insect and disease problems. The article also provides tips on vacation care for house plants. Some plants can survive for months without water, while others can be kept happy for two weeks or more using watering systems. Sealed terrariums require the least care and can go for years without water. Lastly, the article offers last-minute tricks to keep house plants alive during prolonged absences.
To keep your plants healthy while away, start by placing them in a shaded area and removing any blooms to reduce their water needs. Despite not enjoying overly wet soil, plants can withstand occasional flooding, so place them in a deep tray and drench them with water. After this treatment, most plants can survive for up to three weeks without intervention.
For more fragile plants, covering them with plastic can help retain moisture and prevent water loss through evaporation, allowing them to last for over a month without care.
Alternatively, entrusting your plants to an experienced neighbor can also work. Simply ask them to check in once or twice a week and water as required.
If you’re interested in learning more about houseplants, try checking out the various types listed, including full sun, bright light, and flowering plants, among others.
About the author: Larry Hodgson is an accomplished garden writer based in Quebec City, where he cultivates over 3,000 species and varieties. He has authored numerous books on gardening and is the recipient of the Perennial Plant Association’s 2006 Garden Media Award.
FAQ
1. What are some common mistakes people make when caring for house plants?
One common mistake people make is over-watering their plants. It’s important to let the soil dry out slightly before watering again. Another mistake is placing plants in areas with too much or too little light. Make sure to research the specific light needs for each plant. Finally, not repotting when necessary can also harm your plant, as it needs room to grow and fresh soil for nutrients.
2. What is the best way to water house plants?
The best way to water house plants is to thoroughly saturate the soil, allowing water to drain out of the bottom of the pot. Be sure to empty any excess water that remains in the saucer beneath the pot, as this can lead to root rot. It’s also important to use room temperature water, as cold water can shock the roots.
3. How often should house plants be fertilized?
This depends on the type of plant and the fertilizer being used. Generally, it’s recommended to fertilize once a month during the growing season (spring and summer) and every two months during the dormant season (fall and winter). However, be sure to research the specific fertilizer needs for your plants.
4. What are some natural pest control methods for house plants?
One natural pest control method is to mix water and dish soap in a spray bottle and spritz the affected leaves. Another method is to use a neem oil solution, which is a natural insecticide. Additionally, regularly wiping down leaves with a damp cloth can help prevent pests from taking hold.
5. How can I encourage my house plants to bloom?
Proper lighting and temperature are essential for encouraging house plants to bloom. Research the specific needs for your plant, and make sure it’s getting the right amount of light and warmth. Additionally, some plants may need to be pruned or have their buds pinched off to encourage blooming.
6. What should I do if my house plant is wilting?
First, check the soil to see if it’s too dry or too wet. Adjust watering accordingly. If the plant is receiving enough water, it may need to be repotted or have its roots trimmed. Additionally, make sure the plant is in an area with the appropriate amount of light for its needs.
7. Can I use tap water to water my house plants?
It depends on the quality of your tap water. Some tap water can contain high levels of chlorine or other chemicals that can harm your plants. If you’re unsure, it’s best to let tap water sit out overnight to allow any chemicals to dissipate before using it to water your plants. Alternatively, you can use filtered or distilled water.
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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