When it comes to decorating your home, finding the best indoor plants for a north facing window might seem like a challenge.
These windows don’t get direct sunlight, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be the perfect spot for some stunning greenery.
In fact, there are many beautiful plants that thrive in low light, bringing life and vibrancy to those shadier corners of your home.
So, if you’re ready to add a touch of nature to your north facing window, let’s dive into why these plants are essential, how to choose them, and how to care for them.
When You Should Look for Indoor Plants for a North Facing Window
If you’re trying to figure out the best place in your home for plants, your north facing window might seem tricky.
North facing windows don’t get direct sunlight, unlike their sun-soaked counterparts facing south, east, or west. Instead, they offer soft, indirect light that remains consistent throughout the day.
While it might seem like a limitation, this gentle light can actually be ideal for specific plants that don’t need to bask in bright sunlight.
Wondering if you have a north facing window? Here’s a simple way to check:
- Watch the sun’s journey. If you don’t see the sun streaming directly through your window at any point during the day, chances are, you’re facing north.
- Use a classic compass or even your smartphone’s compass app to confirm.
If your window faces north, you may be wondering if any plants can thrive in that low-light environment. The good news? There’s a wide selection of beautiful, resilient plants that do just that, making them perfect for your north facing window.
How to Choose Indoor Plants for a North Facing Window
Choosing the right indoor plants for a north facing window isn’t as hard as you might think. The key is selecting plants that naturally thrive in low-light conditions. Think of these plants as the shade lovers of the plant world.
Whether you’re looking for something small to sit on a windowsill or a larger plant to bring life to a dim corner, there are plenty of options. You’ll find everything from petite species that thrive in low light to large, dramatic plants that can still thrive with minimal sun exposure. Focus on varieties that naturally grow in shaded environments, like tropical forests, where they receive dappled light through the canopy.
How to Care for Indoor Plants in This Orientation
Even though your plants may not need direct sunlight, you’ll want to give them a little extra care to ensure they thrive. Here are some tips for taking care of plants in front of a north facing window:
- Supplement with artificial light: In winter months or during particularly gloomy days, a small grow light can work wonders. Consider using LED or fluorescent bulbs designed for plants to give them the boost they need.
- Keep leaves dust-free: With limited light already, any dust on your plant’s leaves can block the small amount of light they’re getting. Make sure to regularly wipe them down so they can fully benefit from the available light.
- Ensure humidity is high: North facing windows often coincide with cooler temperatures, so you may notice that your plants prefer a bit more humidity. Mist your plants regularly or place a small humidifier nearby to keep them happy.
- Don’t overwater: Because plants in low light don’t grow as quickly, they won’t need as much water. Check the soil before watering to avoid waterlogged roots.
List of Indoor Plants Appropriate for a North Facing Window
Now, let’s get to the fun part: choosing your plants! Here’s a list of some fantastic indoor plants that thrive in low-light conditions, perfect for your north facing window:
Dracaena Marginata (Dragon Tree)
- Origin: Madagascar
- Care: Dracaenas enjoy indirect light and can handle lower-light conditions. Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Bonus: They’re known for their striking, sword-like leaves and can grow up to 6 feet tall indoors.
ZZ Plant
- Origin: Eastern Africa
- Care: Almost impossible to kill, ZZ plants tolerate low light and require watering only once the soil has dried out.
- Bonus: Their shiny leaves add a touch of elegance, and they thrive on neglect.
Monstera Deliciosa
- Origin: Tropical rainforests of Central America
- Care: Prefers indirect light and regular watering, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
- Bonus: Known for its iconic split leaves, Monstera adds a lush, tropical feel to any room.
Golden Pothos
- Origin: Southeast Asia
- Care: One of the easiest plants to grow, it tolerates low light and doesn’t mind if you occasionally forget to water it.
- Bonus: Its trailing vines can grow up to 10 feet long, perfect for hanging baskets or shelves.
Heart-Leaf Philodendron
- Origin: Central and South America
- Care: Thrives in low light, only needing water when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Bonus: Its heart-shaped leaves bring a soft, romantic touch to any space.
Monstera Adansonii (Swiss Cheese Plant)
- Origin: Central and South America
- Care: Needs indirect light and regular watering but thrives even in lower-light conditions.
- Bonus: Its unique, holey leaves make it an eye-catching addition to your home.
Spider Plant
- Origin: Southern Africa
- Care: Tolerates low light and irregular watering, making it one of the best starter plants.
- Bonus: Produces “pups” or baby plants that can be propagated easily.
Chinese Evergreen
- Origin: Southeast Asia
- Care: Does well in low-light conditions and needs minimal watering.
- Bonus: This hardy plant comes in various colors and patterns, adding a pop of color to your home.
Snake Plant
- Origin: West Africa
- Care: One of the easiest plants to grow indoors, it thrives on neglect and does well in low light.
- Bonus: Known for its sharp, upright leaves, it’s a bold statement piece that also helps purify the air.
Peace Lily
- Origin: Central and South America
- Care: Prefers low light and needs consistently moist soil.
- Bonus: Its beautiful white blooms add a touch of elegance while also filtering toxins from the air.
Philodendron
- Origin: Central and South America
- Care: Thrives in low light and needs occasional watering.
- Bonus: It’s a fast grower, perfect for adding greenery to your home in a short amount of time.
With the right plant choices and a little extra care, your north facing window can become a lush, green haven for beautiful and resilient plants.
Final Thoughts
Don’t let the lack of direct sunlight hold you back from creating a green haven. With the right indoor plants for your north facing window, you can transform any space into a tranquil, thriving plant sanctuary.
Whether you’re just starting out or expanding your collection, these plants will reward you with beauty and a healthy indoor environment. So go ahead, pick your favorites, and watch them flourish!