Houseplants for Low Light
Not every home or office has large sunny windows, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy beautiful houseplants. Many plants actually thrive in lower light conditions with just a little care and attention.
If you’re decorating a shady corner, office desk or room with limited sunlight, here are a few helpful tips for successfully growing plants in low light environments.
What Counts as Low Light?
Low light doesn’t necessarily mean no light, it means limited natural sunlight.
Examples of low light areas include:
- A windowless corner of a room
- Areas shaded by trees or nearby buildings
- Light from a north-facing window
- Plants placed more than 8 feet from a window
- Offices lit primarily with fluorescent lighting
These locations receive less intense sunlight, so choosing the right plants is key.
Watering in Low Light
Plants growing in low light usually need less water than plants in bright locations.
One of the most common mistakes people make with low light plants is overwatering. Because the plants grow more slowly and use less moisture, the soil stays wet longer.
A good rule of thumb is to allow the soil to dry moderately between waterings before watering again.
Fertilizing
Plants in low light conditions grow more slowly, so they require less fertilizer.
- Fertilize sparingly
- Only feed plants during active growth periods
- Most houseplants do not need fertilizer in winter
Too much fertilizer can actually harm plants that are growing slowly.
Repotting
Low light plants can usually stay in the same pot longer than plants growing in brighter conditions. Being slightly root bound can even help prevent overwatering.
When it’s time to repot:
- Repot in early spring, when new growth begins
- Choose a pot only about 1 inch larger than the current one
- Make sure the new container has good drainage
Great Plants for Low Light
Here are a few reliable plants that perform well in lower light environments.
Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)
Chinese Evergreens have beautifully patterned leaves that brighten up shady spaces.
Care tips:
- Keep out of direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves
- Water lightly in winter, just enough to prevent the soil from drying out
- Fertilize monthly during active growth
Arrowhead Plant (Nephthytis)
The Arrowhead Plant is a durable and easy-care houseplant that grows well in low to medium light.
Care tips:
- Prefers rich, well-drained soil
- A great choice for beginners
Neanthe Bella Palm
Also known as the Parlor Palm, this is one of the few palms that tolerates lower light conditions.
Care tips:
- Allow soil to dry slightly between waterings
- Can also grow well in bright, indirect light
Dracaena
There are many varieties of Dracaena, including popular types like ‘Limelight’, that adapt well to lower light areas.
Care tips:
- Avoid overwatering, especially during winter
- Prefers warm indoor temperatures
With the right plant choices and simple care, even the shadiest rooms can be filled with healthy, beautiful greenery. Low light plants are perfect for homes and offices where sunlight is limited but the desire for plants is not.