Hey there, fellow plant lovers! 🌿
Have you noticed how houseplants are sprouting up everywhere these days? More and more people are catching on to the joy of having a little greenery around. Whether you’re a new plant enthusiast or just looking for some easy-to-grow options, you’re not alone in wanting to bring a touch of nature into your home. But let’s be honest – not all of us live in sun-soaked spaces with big windows, and finding plants that thrive in low light can be a real challenge.
That’s where low light hanging houseplants come to the rescue! 🌱 These little heroes can make even the shadiest of corners come alive and add a fresh, lively vibe to your indoor spaces. So, if you’re eager to learn how to care for these easygoing plants and transform your home into a leafy sanctuary, you’ve come to the right place. Stick around as we dive into the world of low light hanging houseplants and get ready to be amazed by these delightful green companions! 🌟
What Does ‘Low Light’ Mean to Plants?
Are you new to houseplants or simply seeking low maintenance plants for your home? You might wonder how some plants can be “low light tolerant” and what that means. Well, you’re in the right place because we’re going to break it all down for you!
First, let’s talk about what low light conditions mean. In the world of plants, “low light” refers to areas without direct sunlight, like rooms with small windows or shady corners. But don’t worry, some plants have adapted to thrive in these dimmer spots! 🌱
These fantastic plants have developed unique adaptations to soak up every bit of light they can, even in less-than-bright settings. They often have larger, more efficient leaves to capture light or grow slower to conserve energy. Neat, huh?
So, why choose low light hanging houseplants? Well, they’re perfect for bringing life to those darker nooks and crannies in your home without needing a lot of sunlight. Plus, they’re usually low maintenance, perfect for beginners or busy folks who still want to enjoy the perks of having plants around. 🌟
Houseplant Basics – What Every Plant Needs
Lighting 🌞
When it comes to lighting, not all plants are the same. Some plants love basking in bright sunlight, while others prefer the cozy comfort of low light. Understanding your plant’s light needs is critical to helping it grow strong and healthy. Don’t worry – figuring this out is easier than you might think!
For low light hanging plants, find a spot in your home that gets indirect sunlight, like near a north-facing window or a few feet away from a sunnier window. If you need to figure out how much light a spot gets, try this simple trick: hold your hand up and see if your hand casts a shadow. If there’s no shadow or just a faint one, that’s a perfect spot for your low light loving plant.
Remember, lighting can change throughout the day and with the seasons. Keep an eye on your plants and adjust their positions as needed. If you notice your plant’s leaves turning yellow or the stems growing longer and more spaced, it might need more light. On the other hand, if the leaves are getting brown and crispy, they could be getting too much sun. Be bold and experiment with different spots once you find the perfect place for your green friend!
Water 💧
Watering your plants might seem simple, but it’s one of the most common areas where new plant parents run into trouble. Over-watering and under-watering can harm your plants, so finding the right balance is essential.
Most houseplants should be watered when the top inch or two of soil feels dry. You can use your fingers to determine whether or not the plants need to be watered or use an inexpensive water meter.
Make sure to give your plant a good watering, ensuring that the water flows freely from the base of the container. This helps prevent soggy soil and ensures the plant’s roots get enough moisture.
Remember that every plant is different; some may need more or less water than others. Low light hanging plants generally need less water than those in brighter spots since they don’t use as much energy. Pay attention to your plant’s leaves and adjust your watering schedule accordingly. Your plant’s drooping or yellowing leaves could indicate you’re giving it too much water. You may need to water them more often if they become dry and crispy.
Soil 🌱
The right soil can make all the difference in your plant’s health and happiness. Most houseplants do best in a well-draining, nutrient-rich soil mix. You can find unique houseplant soil mixes at your local garden store or even make your own by combining regular potting soil with some perlite, which helps with drainage.
Low light hanging plants often prefer a lighter, airier soil mix, as it allows their roots to breathe and prevents them from staying too wet. Adjust the mixture by adding more perlite or peat moss, which helps retain moisture without making the soil too heavy.
Repotting your plants is also essential for maintaining healthy soil. As time passes, soil can become densely packed and lose nutrients, making it more challenging for plants to thrive. Consider repotting your plants every one to two years, or when you see their roots emerging from the pot’s drainage holes. This is an excellent opportunity to refresh the soil and give your plants extra room to grow.
Humidity 💨
Humidity, or moisture, is vital in keeping your plants happy. Many houseplants come from tropical environments, where the air is naturally more humid.
To recreate that tropical environment at home, try placing a small tray filled with water and pebbles near your plants. As the water evaporates, the humidity around your green friends will increase. Another option is to employ a humidifier, or cluster your plants close to each other. This way, they can collectively increase air moisture through their natural process of transpiration.
Monitor your plants to see if they’re getting enough humidity. Browning leaf tips or the leaves looking wrinkled, may mean more moisture is needed in the air. Maintaining the proper humidity levels will help your plants stay healthy and happy.
Temperature 🌡️
Just like people, plants have their preferred temperature ranges. Most houseplants, including low light hanging plants, do well in temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C) during the day and a bit cooler at night. Keeping your home within this range will help your plants thrive.
Be mindful of where you place your plants, as temperatures can vary within a room. Avoid placing them near drafty windows or doors or too close to heating and cooling vents, as sudden temperature changes can stress your plants. If you notice yellowing or falling leaves on your plant, it could be a sign that it’s unhappy with the temperature.
Fertilization 🌺
Feeding your plants with the proper nutrients is essential for their growth and overall health. Most houseplants benefit from regular fertilization, especially during their active growing season (usually spring and summer). Look for a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer designed explicitly for houseplants, and follow the package instructions for how much and how often to feed your plants.
Low light hanging plants typically don’t need as much fertilizer as their sun-loving counterparts, as they grow more slowly and use less energy. Too During the cooler months, when your plants are growing less actively, you can reduce the frequency of fertilization or even stop feeding altogether until the warmer weather returns.
Pots 🌼
Choosing the right pot for your plant is important in helping it grow strong and healthy. Select a pot with drainage holes. A saucer or tray underneath the pot will catch excess water and protect your surfaces.
As for the material, pots can be made from various materials such as plastic, terracotta, or ceramic. Each has its pros and cons.
Plastic pots are lightweight and retain moisture well, while terracotta pots are porous and help the soil dry out more quickly, which can benefit plants that don’t like to be too wet. Ceramic pots are attractive and sturdy but can be heavier and more expensive.
When it’s time to repot your plant, choose a new pot that’s about 1-2 inches larger in diameter than the current one. You can give your plant’s roots room to grow without overwhelming them with too much space. And remember to use fresh soil when repotting to ensure your plant has the nutrients it needs to thrive.
Now that you have the basics down, let’s look at some plants that can thrive in low light.
We’ve put together a list of 11 fantastic options that will thrive in your home, even if it doesn’t get a ton of sunlight. Each plant is unique in appearance and growth habits, so you’ll surely find one (or more!) that you’ll love.
11 Low Light Hanging Houseplants
1. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
A fast-growing vine with heart-shaped leaves in green, yellow, and white shades. This versatile plant can easily be trained to climb or trail, making it a popular choice among low light hanging houseplants.
2. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Featuring long, slender, arching green leaves with white stripes, this easy-to-grow plant produces baby plantlets on long stems, resembling little spiders. It’s a moderate grower that adds a fun, playful touch to any space.
3. Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)
This plant has glossy, heart-shaped leaves in deep green and is a fast grower. It’s perfect for hanging baskets or trailing down a shelf, adding a lush, tropical feel to your home.
4. String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)
A unique succulent with tiny, round “pearls” that grow on trailing vines. This plant is slow-growing and has a beautiful cascading effect, making it a stunning addition to a hanging basket.
5. English Ivy (Hedera helix)
A classic choice with attractive, lobed leaves that vary in shades of green, often with white or silver marbling. This plant is a moderate grower and can climb or trail, adding elegance to any room.
6. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
A popular fern with feathery, arching fronds in bright green. This plant grows moderately fast and can reach a large size, making it perfect for filling an empty corner with a touch of nature.
7. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum spp.)
This lovely plant has large, glossy green leaves and occasionally produces white, sail-like flowers. It’s a moderate grower and can reach up to 2-3 feet in height, making it a stunning focal point in your home.
8. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema spp.)
Known for its striking foliage, this plant has large, lance-shaped leaves in various shades of green, sometimes with silver, white, or red markings. It’s a slow-growing plant that adds color to your space.
9. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
With its thick, glossy, dark green leaves that grow on tall, upright stems, this plant is a slow grower and can reach up to 3 feet in height. It’s a great low-maintenance option for adding a touch of green to your home.
10. Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum spp.)
A delicate, slow-growing fern with small, fan-shaped leaves on wiry, black stems. This plant adds a graceful, airy touch to any space, but it requires a bit more humidity than other options on this list.
Insect Pests and Diseases
One thing I really love about these plants is that they are hardy and pretty much trouble-free. However, occasionally, they can also attract some unwanted guests. Pests and diseases can be challenging for any plant parent, but don’t worry! With some knowledge and simple steps, you can help your plants stay healthy and pest-free. Let’s look at some common problems and how to deal with them.
Spider Mites
One common pest you might encounter is the tiny, sap-sucking spider mite. These little critters can cause your plant’s leaves to look speckled or discolored, and they’re especially fond of low humidity environments. To tackle a spider mite infestation, start by giving your plant a good shower, using a gentle spray of water to knock the mites off the leaves. You can also use a soft cloth dipped in soapy water to gently clean the leaves.
To prevent future infestations, try increasing the humidity around your plants by misting them regularly or using a humidifier.
Fungus Gnats
Another pesky problem that can affect your houseplants is fungus gnats. These tiny flies love damp soil and can be a sign that you’re over-watering your plants. While the adult gnats are mostly just annoying, their larvae can munch on your plant’s roots, causing severe damage.
To get rid of fungus gnats, try letting the top layer of soil dry out between waterings or using a layer of sand or diatomaceous earth on the soil’s surface to discourage the gnats from laying their eggs. Sticky traps can also help catch adult gnats and monitor the infestation.
Root Rot
Of course, it’s not just bugs that can cause plant problems. Diseases like root rot, caused by a fungus in the soil, can be a severe issue for houseplants, especially if they’re over-watered or have poor drainage. To prevent root rot, use well-draining soil and containers with drainage holes. Don’t let your plants sit in water.
If you notice your plant’s leaves turning yellow and wilting and the soil is soggy, it may have root rot. To save your plant, remove it from its pot and trim away any mushy or discolored roots. Repot your plant in fresh, well-draining soil and water it sparingly until it recovers.
We’ve explored the wonderful world of low light hanging houseplants together, and now it’s time for you to embark on your plant journey! 🌿 Remember, even if you’re new to the world of plants or just looking for some low-maintenance options, there’s a perfect plant out there waiting to brighten up your home.
Don’t be afraid to give these low light hanging houseplants a try. They’re not only easy to care for but also bring a touch of nature and beauty into your living space. Caring for plants can be a fun and rewarding hobby that helps you unwind and connect with the natural world.
Happy gardening!
Sources: University of Illinois University of Maryland Extension
