Best Houseplants for North Facing Windows: Bring Life to Any Space
If you have north facing windows in your home, you may think that your plant options are limited due to the lack of direct sunlight. However, there are still plenty of beautiful and low-light tolerant houseplants that can thrive in these conditions.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the best houseplants for north facing windows, their care requirements, and how to create a thriving indoor garden in any space.
Understanding North Facing Windows
Before we dive into the specific houseplants, let’s first understand what it means to have a north facing window. In the Northern hemisphere, north facing windows receive the least amount of direct sunlight throughout the day. This makes them ideal for plants that prefer low to moderate light levels.
It’s important to note that the lighting conditions may vary depending on your location and the surrounding buildings or trees that may block sunlight. If you are unsure about the light levels in your specific space, it’s a good idea to observe the amount of natural light your north facing windows receive throughout the day.
The Best Houseplants for North Facing Windows
1. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The ZZ Plant is a tough and resilient houseplant that can thrive in low light conditions. It can tolerate drought and is an excellent choice for those who forget to water their plants regularly. The ZZ Plant’s glossy, dark green foliage adds a touch of elegance to any space.
2. Rattlesnake Plant (Goeppertia insignis)
The Rattlesnake Plant, also known as Calathea lancifolia, is a stunning houseplant with unique patterned leaves. It prefers higher humidity levels and can be sensitive to water quality, so using filtered water is recommended. With its vibrant foliage, the Rattlesnake Plant adds a pop of color to any north facing window.
3. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema spp.)
Chinese Evergreens are known for their colorful foliage, ranging from shades of green to pink and red. They are low maintenance plants that can tolerate lower light levels.
Chinese Evergreens are a great choice for adding a splash of color to your north facing window.
4. Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum spp.)
Maidenhair Ferns are delicate and graceful plants that thrive in higher humidity environments. They require consistent moisture and should never be allowed to dry out completely.
With their feathery foliage, Maidenhair Ferns bring a touch of elegance to any north facing window.
5. Cebu Blue (Epipremnum pinnatum ‘Cebu Blue’)
Cebu Blue is a stunning vining plant with silvery blue foliage. It can be grown in a hanging basket or provided with a climbing support.
Cebu Blue is easy to care for and can tolerate lower light levels. Its unique foliage adds a touch of sophistication to any north facing window.
6. Silver Philodendron (Scindapsus pictus)
Silver Philodendron, also known as Scindapsus pictus, is a vining plant with silver-patterned leaves. Although it’s not a true Philodendron, the care requirements are similar.
It can be grown in a hanging basket or provided with a climbing support like a moss pole. Silver Philodendron is an eye-catching addition to any north facing window.
7. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior)
True to its name, the Cast Iron Plant is incredibly tough and can tolerate a wide range of light conditions, including low light. It has broad, dark green leaves that add a touch of elegance to any space.
Cast Iron Plants are perfect for those who want a low-maintenance plant for their north facing window.
8. Heart Leaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)
Heart Leaf Philodendron is a popular choice for low light conditions. Its trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves make it a charming addition to any north facing window.
Heart Leaf Philodendron is easy to care for and can tolerate a wide range of light conditions, making it perfect for beginners.
9. Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Golden Pothos, also known as Devil’s Ivy, is a versatile and easy-to-grow houseplant. It can thrive in low light conditions and can even tolerate areas with no natural light, as long as there is some artificial lighting present.
Golden Pothos is an excellent choice for adding a trailing touch to your north facing window.
10. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans)
Parlor Palm is a popular choice for indoor gardening due to its ease of care and adaptability to various light conditions. It is one of the easiest palms to grow indoors and stays a manageable size.
Parlor Palms are a great choice for adding a touch of tropical vibes to your north facing window.
Creating a Thriving Indoor Garden
Now that you have a list of the best houseplants for north facing windows, let’s explore some tips and tricks to create a thriving indoor garden in any space.
Light Considerations
While north facing windows offer lower light levels, it’s still important to consider the specific lighting conditions in your space. Observe how much natural light your windows receive throughout the day and adjust your plant selection accordingly.
Some plants may tolerate lower light levels better than others, so be sure to choose plants that are well-suited to your specific space.
Watering and Humidity
Proper watering is essential for the health of your houseplants. While each plant has its own specific watering requirements, a general rule of thumb is to allow the top inch of soil to dry out before watering again.
It’s important not to overwater your plants, as this can lead to root rot and other issues.
In addition to watering, some houseplants may benefit from increased humidity. This is especially true for plants that naturally thrive in tropical environments. You can increase humidity around your plants by using a humidifier, placing a tray of water near your plants, or regularly misting them.
Soil and Potting
Choosing the right soil and potting containers is crucial for the health of your houseplants. Use a well-draining potting mix that allows excess water to flow out of the container. This will help prevent overwatering and root rot.
When selecting pots, choose ones with drainage holes to allow excess water to escape. If you prefer decorative pots without drainage holes, consider using a plastic nursery pot with drainage holes inside the decorative pot.
This will allow you to easily remove the plant for watering and ensure proper drainage.
Fertilizing
Houseplants generally benefit from regular fertilizing to provide them with essential nutrients. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application.
Be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can cause fertilizer burn and other issues. It’s also a good idea to flush the soil with plain water occasionally to remove any build-up of salts from the fertilizer.
Pruning and Maintenance
Regular pruning and maintenance are important for keeping your houseplants looking their best. Remove any yellowing or dead leaves to promote healthy growth.
Trim back overgrown branches or vines to maintain a compact and tidy appearance. Regularly inspect your plants for pests and take appropriate measures to control them if necessary.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the best care, houseplants can sometimes develop issues. Common problems include yellowing leaves, brown spots, pests, and wilting.
If you notice any of these issues, it’s important to diagnose the problem and take appropriate action. This may involve adjusting watering practices, increasing or decreasing light levels, or treating pests with natural or chemical solutions.
Conclusion
With the right selection of houseplants and proper care, you can create a thriving indoor garden in any space, even with north facing windows. The best houseplants for north facing windows are those that can tolerate lower light levels and have low maintenance requirements.
Whether you choose the elegant ZZ Plant, the vibrant Rattlesnake Plant, or the versatile Golden Pothos, these plants will bring life and beauty to your home. Remember to consider the specific lighting conditions, watering needs, and other care requirements of each plant to ensure their health and longevity.
So go ahead, embrace the beauty of nature indoors and enjoy the benefits of a lush green oasis in your north facing windows.