Best Places for Houseplants
When you’re thinking about houseplant placement, it’s fine to be concerned about what plant will look prettiest in which room. However, if you want healthy, beautiful, long-lived plants, growing conditions must be considered before anything else. Sunlight is the number one requirement for indoor plants. All plants need light, but the amount varies substantially. Although some plants, including certain types of cactus and succulents, need bright sunlight, most prefer more moderate, less intense light. Bright, indirect light, such as from an east-facing window, is good for many plants. If your windows face west or south, you may need to move the plants away from the window or soften the intensity with sheer drapes or a light curtain. If you’re itching to put plants in a low-light room consider plants such as:
IvyPothosMaidenhair FernSnake PlantPrayer PlantLucky Bamboo
Remember that low light doesn’t mean no light. If your rooms are too dark, you can supplement available light with a grow light, which can also add to the ambience. Drainage is essential for all plants. Unless you’re growing aquatic plants, every pot must have a drainage hole in the bottom. If you can’t resist a beautiful pot and you don’t want to risk drilling a hole, put the plant in a regular container with a drainage hole, then set it inside the decorative pot. Be sure the inner pot never stands in water. Moisture that absorbs through the hole can cause the plant to rot.
Where to Put My Houseplants: Houseplant Placement and Aesthetics
Here are a few general tips on houseplants and where to put them: Spreading plants around the perimeter and away from the center of the room can make the space appear larger. For instance, place plants on shelves, windowsills, or in corners. Hanging plants are back in style, but it’s essential to find the best spot. Don’t hang a plant where tall guests can bump their heads. Be sure the plant is safely anchored, preferably not above a walkway or easy chair. You’ll also need to water the plant, so consider how the pot drains. Use your imagination. If you have space, set plants on the rungs of an old ladder or on top of a cupboard. Remember that heat rises so plants in high spots may require more water. If plants are at eye level, cover the potting mix with decorative stones or pebbles. Don’t forget plants in the bathrooms. Although succulents won’t be happy with all that steamy air, many plants, including philodendron, spider plant, pothos, and most ferns, will thrive in the warmth and humidity.
