Apartment Life And Houseplants Are Perfect Match!
Living in New York City often means limited natural light in your apartment, but that doesn't mean you can't enjoy houseplants! While plants generally thrive best in bright, indirect light, there are several varieties that can survive—and even thrive—in low-light or artificial lighting conditions. If you’re a plant parent with a low-light home, here are some of the most resilient options that require minimal care, making them perfect for beginners.
Why Low Light Doesn’t Mean No Light
Even plants that can tolerate lower light levels need some light to survive. A good rule of thumb is to aim for 8-12 hours of indirect light or supplement with artificial lighting if necessary. Plants deprived of enough light may lose their vibrant color and become leggy.
Zamioculcas zamiifolia for apartments:
Zamioculcas zamiifolia (ZZ plant) is a favorite among busy plant owners due to its extreme hardiness. Known for its glossy green leaves and thick stems, this plant is drought-tolerant and can handle low-light environments like a pro. Just water when the soil is completely dry, and even if you forget, this plant will stay happy.
Our favorite choice is the regular ZZ Plant!
Aglaonema:
If you want to add a pop of color to a shady space, Aglaonema is the plant for you! With varieties in shades of pink, white, and silver, this plant thrives in low to medium light. Plus, it’s believed to bring luck, making it a great addition to bedrooms or hallways with limited lighting.
Sansevieria:
A classic in any collection, Sansevieria plants are probably the most durable and enduring plants on the market. They grow stiff leaves ranging from a green so dark they’re almost black to lighter varieties appearing more silver. The plant can tolerate any light conditions but will put out new growth and ‘pups’ in direct sunlight and warm temperatures. Varieties of Sansevieria offered at Ed’s include Balck Coral, Laurentii, Zeylnaica, Robusta, Metallica, and more.
Pothos:
We often recommend Pothos for beginners because they are a plant that communicates quite clearly when they need a drink. You’ll notice the leaves wilt quite dramatically once they’re dry, which tends to take a week or more between waterings. Pothos are one of the easiest indoor plants to grow, with the varieties containing more green being the best for low light conditions. While species like Marble Queen are beautiful, they lose their variegation in low light conditions and begin to develop awkward, ‘leggy’ growth. Stick to Neon Pothos for the best results in a dark room!
Philodendron Hederaceum:
This trailing plant is not only easy on the eyes but also simple to care for. The heart-shaped leaves grow well in both bright and low-light conditions, making it a perfect choice for dark NYC apartments. Philodendrons appreciate high humidity, but they’re also adaptable to typical indoor environments.
Knowing your plants well and helping them grow is a continuous learning process. We are here to help you every step of the way so feel free to reach out via Instagram or send us an email! We believe that everyone is able to successfully care for plants, it’s simply a matter of finding the species for your space!
Feel free to reach out via Instagram or email if you need advice on choosing the best plant for your space. Happy planting! 🌱
“Plants want to grow; they are on your side as long as you are reasonably sensible.” - Anne Wareham
