10 Large Houseplants That Do Well in Low Humidity: + Tips
Plants can survive in a wide range of environmental conditions, but certain plants are better adapted to specific environments than others. Low humidity can be a challenging environment for many plants, especially those that are native to tropical or subtropical regions where humidity levels are typically high. However, some plants have adapted to survive in low humidity conditions, making them ideal choices for homes or environments with dry air.
Benefits of Indoor Plants in Low Humidity Environments
One reason to plant in low-humidity conditions is to bring natural beauty and greenery into a home or office environment. Large houseplants can add a touch of natural beauty to any room, creating a relaxing and calming atmosphere. In addition, studies have shown that exposure to plants and natural environments can have a positive impact on mental health, reducing stress and promoting feelings of well-being.
Another reason to plant in low humidity conditions is to improve air quality. Many of the plants that thrive in low-humidity environments are natural air purifiers, removing harmful pollutants such as formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene from the air. These pollutants are commonly found in homes and offices and can have negative health effects, including headaches, eye irritation, and respiratory problems.
Planting in low-humidity conditions can be a practical choice for busy homeowners or novice gardeners. Many of the plants that thrive in low-humidity environments are low-maintenance and require little watering or fertilizing, making them ideal choices for people who want to enjoy the benefits of indoor plants without the added hassle of frequent care and maintenance. Additionally, these plants can be long-lasting and can provide years of beauty and natural air purification with minimal effort.
Characteristics of Plants That Thrive in Low Humidity Environments
Plants that thrive in low humidity environments have certain characteristics that allow them to survive and even thrive in dry conditions. For instance, many of these plants have thick, fleshy leaves that help to retain moisture. Other plants have developed mechanisms for conserving water, such as opening their stomata (tiny pores on the surface of leaves) at night when the air is cooler and less humid. In general, plants that have evolved in arid or semi-arid environments tend to be more suited to low humidity conditions.
What Large Houseplants Do Well in Low Humidity?
This article will explore some large houseplants that do well in low humidity conditions.
1. Snake Plant
The Snake Plant, also known as Mother-in-law’s tongue, is a hardy and low-maintenance houseplant that can thrive in low humidity conditions. It is native to West Africa and can tolerate low light, dry air, and neglect, making it an ideal choice for busy homeowners or novice gardeners. The Snake Plant has long, upright leaves that are striped with green and yellow and can grow up to three feet tall, making it an excellent choice for filling large spaces in your home.
One of the reasons why the Snake Plant does well in low humidity is its ability to store water in its thick leaves. This feature allows the plant to withstand periods of drought and maintain healthy growth even in dry environments. Additionally, the Snake Plant has a slow growth rate, so it does not require frequent watering, making it ideal for people who do not have a lot of time to care for their plants.
2. ZZ Plant
The ZZ Plant, also known as the Zanzibar Gem, is another low-maintenance houseplant that can thrive in low humidity conditions. It is native to Eastern Africa and has shiny, dark green leaves that can grow up to three feet tall. The ZZ Plant can tolerate a wide range of lighting conditions, from low to bright light, and can also handle periods of drought, making it an excellent choice for homes with dry air.
One of the unique features of the ZZ Plant is its ability to store water in its rhizomes, which are underground stems that can store nutrients and water. This adaptation allows the plant to survive in arid environments and can help it thrive even in low humidity conditions. The ZZ Plant is also resistant to pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance plant that can add a touch of green to your home without requiring much care.
3. Pothos
Pothos, also known as Devil’s Ivy, is a popular houseplant that can tolerate a wide range of lighting conditions, including low light. It has variegated leaves that can grow up to 30 inches long, making it an ideal choice for hanging baskets or trailing from shelves and bookcases. The Pothos is native to the Solomon Islands and can thrive in a variety of indoor environments, including those with low humidity.
One of the reasons why Pothos does well in low humidity conditions is its ability to adapt to different moisture levels. The plant can survive periods of drought and does not require frequent watering, making it an ideal choice for homeowners who do not have time to care for their plants. Additionally, the Pothos can purify the air by removing harmful pollutants such as formaldehyde and benzene, making it an excellent choice for homes with poor indoor air quality.
4. Chinese Evergreen
The Chinese Evergreen is a popular houseplant that can thrive in low humidity conditions. It is native to tropical Asia and has broad, lance-shaped leaves that are often variegated with silver, white, or pink markings. The Chinese Evergreen is a low-maintenance plant that can tolerate a wide range of lighting conditions, including low light, making it an ideal choice for homes with dry air.
One of the reasons why the Chinese Evergreen does well in low humidity is its ability to store water in its leaves. This adaptation allows the plant to survive periods of drought and maintain healthy growth even in dry environments. Additionally, the Chinese Evergreen is a slow-growing plant that does not require frequent watering, making it an excellent choice for people who do not have a lot of time to care for their plants.
5. Rubber Plant
The Rubber Plant, also known as Ficus elastica, is a large houseplant that can thrive in low humidity conditions. It is native to India and has large, glossy leaves that can grow up to 12 inches long. The Rubber Plant can tolerate a wide range of lighting conditions, from low to bright light, and can also handle periods of drought, making it an excellent choice for homes with dry air.
One of the reasons why the Rubber Plant does well in low humidity conditions is its ability to store water in its leaves and stems. This feature allows the plant to survive periods of drought and maintain healthy growth even in dry environments. Additionally, the Rubber Plant is a slow-growing plant that does not require frequent watering, making it an ideal choice for busy homeowners or novice gardeners.
6. Dracaena
Dracaena is a genus of houseplants that includes many species that can tolerate low humidity conditions. Some of the most popular species include Dracaena marginata, Dracaena fragrans, and Dracaena reflexa. These plants have long, narrow leaves that can grow up to several feet tall, making them an excellent choice for filling large spaces in your home.
One of the reasons why Dracaena does well in low humidity conditions is its ability to adapt to different moisture levels. The plant can survive periods of drought and does not require frequent watering, making it an ideal choice for busy homeowners or novice gardeners. Additionally, Dracaena can purify the air by removing harmful pollutants such as formaldehyde and benzene, making it an excellent choice for homes with poor indoor air quality.
7. Peace Lily
Peace Lily, also known as Spathiphyllum, is a popular houseplant that can thrive in low humidity conditions. It is native to tropical regions of the Americas and has large, glossy leaves that can grow up to 16 inches long. The Peace Lily can tolerate low light and periods of drought, making it an ideal choice for homes with dry air.
One of the unique features of the Peace Lily is its ability to indicate when it needs watering. The plant’s leaves will droop when it needs water, making it easy for homeowners to know when to water their plants. Additionally, the Peace Lily can purify the air by removing harmful pollutants such as formaldehyde and benzene, making it an excellent choice for homes with poor indoor air quality.
8.Spider Plant
Spider Plant, also known as Chlorophytum comosum, is a popular houseplant that can thrive in low humidity conditions. It has long, narrow leaves that can grow up to 16 inches long, and produces small white flowers that develop into baby spider plants. The Spider Plant can tolerate a wide range of lighting conditions, from low to bright light, and can also handle periods of drought, making it an excellent choice for homes with dry air.
One of the reasons why the Spider Plant does well in low humidity conditions is its ability to adapt to different moisture levels. The plant can survive periods of drought and does not require frequent watering, making it an ideal choice for busy homeowners or novice gardeners. Additionally, the Spider Plant is a natural air purifier, removing harmful pollutants such as formaldehyde and carbon monoxide from the air.
9. Philodendron
Philodendron is a popular houseplant that can thrive in low humidity conditions. It is native to tropical regions of the Americas and has large, glossy leaves that can grow up to several feet long. The Philodendron can tolerate low light and periods of drought, making it an ideal choice for homes with dry air.
One of the reasons why the Philodendron does well in low humidity conditions is its ability to store water in its leaves and stems. This feature allows the plant to survive periods of drought and maintain healthy growth even in dry environments. Additionally, the Philodendron is a natural air purifier, removing harmful pollutants such as formaldehyde and benzene from the air.
10. Norfolk Island Pine
Norfolk Island Pine, also known as Araucaria heterophylla, is a popular houseplant that can thrive in low humidity conditions. It is native to Norfolk Island in the South Pacific and has soft, needle-like leaves that can grow up to several feet long. The Norfolk Island Pine can tolerate a wide range of lighting conditions, from low to bright light, and can also handle periods of drought, making it an excellent choice for homes with dry air.
One of the reasons why the Norfolk Island Pine does well in low humidity conditions is its ability to store water in its leaves and needles. This adaptation allows the plant to survive periods of drought and maintain healthy growth even in dry environments. Additionally, the Norfolk Island Pine is a slow-growing plant that does not require frequent watering or fertilizing, making it an ideal choice for busy homeowners or novice gardeners.
Tips for Caring for Large Houseplants in Low Humidity Environments
- Water plants infrequently, allowing the soil to dry out completely between watering.
- Use a humidifier to increase moisture levels in the air
- Avoid placing plants near heating or cooling vents, as these can cause rapid fluctuations in temperature and humidity levels
- Use a moisture meter to monitor soil moisture levels and ensure that plants are not over or under-watered
- Use a slow-release fertilizer to provide nutrients to plants over a longer period of time
How to Monitor Humidity Levels at Home for Plants
Monitoring humidity levels at home is crucial for maintaining healthy indoor plants. Here are some ways to monitor humidity levels at home for plants:
- Hygrometer: A hygrometer is a device that measures the amount of humidity in the air. You can purchase a hygrometer at a local hardware store or online. Place the hygrometer near your plants to monitor the humidity levels. Most indoor plants prefer a humidity level between 40-60%.
- Digital Thermometer: A digital thermometer can also be used to monitor humidity levels. Some digital thermometers have a built-in hygrometer, which can provide accurate readings of humidity levels. Place the thermometer near your plants and check the humidity level regularly.
- Indoor Thermometer-Hygrometer Combo: An indoor thermometer-hygrometer combo is a device that measures both temperature and humidity levels. This device can provide an accurate reading of the humidity levels in your home and is easy to use. Place the device near your plants to monitor humidity levels.
- Moisture Meter: A moisture meter is a device that measures the moisture level in the soil. By measuring the moisture level in the soil, you can determine whether your plants are getting enough water. If the soil is too dry, it can affect the humidity level around the plant. Make sure to water your plants regularly to maintain proper moisture levels in the soil.
By monitoring the humidity levels at home for your plants, you can ensure that your indoor plants are healthy and happy. If the humidity level is too low, you can increase the humidity around your plants by using a humidifier or placing a tray of water near your plants. If the humidity level is too high, you can decrease the humidity by improving ventilation and avoiding overwatering your plants.
In conclusion, there are many large houseplants that can thrive in low humidity conditions. Some of the most popular plants include the Chinese Evergreen, Rubber Plant, Dracaena, Peace Lily, Spider Plant, Philodendron, ZZ Plant, Norfolk Island Pine, and Snake Plant. These plants have adapted to survive in a variety of environments and can add beauty and natural air purification to your home, even in dry conditions. When selecting a plant for your home, be sure to choose one that fits your lifestyle and environmental conditions, and always follow proper care and maintenance guidelines to ensure your plant thrives.