Houseplants often don't receive optimal lighting in our homes, even if our rooms seem bright. It's true that they don't perceive light in quite the same way we do, yet light is absolutely vital for them.
Why is light essential for houseplants?
The importance of photosynthesis
Most plants need a minimum amount of light in order for the process of photosynthesis to take place, which allows them to live and grow.
This complex process transforms light energy into chemical energy, producing the sugars necessary for growth. Thanks to photosynthesis, foliage displays its vibrant color, and plants can develop healthily and vigorously.
Signs of insufficient light
Indoor plants often lack this essential element because the light intensity may be too low (although our eyes may not necessarily realize it).
An indoor plant that does not get enough light will become etiolated , meaning that its stems will stretch more than normal in search of light, thus displaying an "abnormal" length, directed more or less frankly towards the light source in the room.
If you have ever seen your plants leaning to one side, it is probably because they are looking for light.
With insufficient light, they will grow less, or even not at all. Flowering plants, meanwhile, will bloom little or not at all. New leaves will become smaller, yellow or pale, and begin to fall off.
The risk of root rot increases if watering doesn't match the plant's needs, as it's through sunlight that the plant absorbs water. Furthermore, pests are often more numerous because the plant is weakened.
How to optimize light for your houseplants?
Move the plant and rotate it regularly.
To help your plants get more light, move them closer to a light source. Rotating the plant regularly ensures all sides receive equal amounts of light; rotate it a quarter turn per week. This prevents asymmetrical growth and guarantees even growth. 🌱
Tips for maximizing natural light
If you have curtains or even shutters, do not leave them closed during the day , especially in winter when light is particularly scarce.
Furthermore, the dust that gradually settles on the leaves acts as a screen and reduces the efficiency of photosynthesis. Clean the foliage as needed.
To clean your leaves, you can use the cleaning mist.
Formulated with natural ingredients and probiotics, this mist eliminates dust from leaves by acting on the plant's microbiota for healthy growth.
Light-colored walls and mirrors can help reflect light back into the room.
By placing your plants near reflective surfaces, you increase the light intensity they receive.
Some houseplants can sometimes also benefit from the installation of artificial lights.
Managing excess light
Recognizing the signs of too much light
Conversely, some houseplants are overexposed to light , which is also not beneficial for them. They need neither too much nor too little light.
The signs that should alert you are: the leaves become deformed, curled or wavy, turn pale, or develop dry, brown spots. Excessive light can burn the leaves and damage the plant in the long term.
Adjust the light exposure
After moving the plant away from the window, remove any brown parts. You can also filter the light with a relatively thick curtain or blinds . This allows you to control the light intensity and protect the plant from direct sunlight.
And above all, hydrate the plant well, without drowning it , to compensate for the stress caused by excess light.
To hydrate your plant perfectly, you can use an olla .
This porous ceramic water reservoir allows water to slowly seep directly to the roots, providing optimal and autonomous hydration. The plants draw the water they need, when they need it.
An olla will prevent you from over- or under-watering your plant.
Natural light or artificial light
Advantages of natural light
It is essential to place houseplants in a well-lit room with one or more windows.
However, they do not appreciate being in full sun, especially behind a window, as its rays could burn the leaves.
For good lighting, you can keep a filter (blind, voile…) on your windows on sunny days or move the plants a little further away (20 to 30 cm) if they are facing south or west.
Natural light is often sufficient for plants that do not have overly demanding light requirements.
Use artificial light
Artificial light can be used to supplement natural light or as the sole source of light, although natural light is always better.
Not all artificial lights are created equal when it comes to plants.
These possess three types of photoreceptors:
- Phytochromes : sensitive to red light, they are essential for germination, chlorophyll formation, and flowering.
- Phototropins : sensitive to blue light, they adapt the "shape" of the plant to capture the maximum amount of light possible.
- Cryptochromes : sensitive to blue and ultraviolet light, they influence the growth of stems and leaves, as well as flowering.
Not all houseplants have the same light requirements, which are determined by their natural environment.
For example, cacti living in deserts need maximum sunlight, while ferns, living in forests, prefer light filtered through trees.
Adapt the lighting to each type of plant
Plants that love direct sunlight
Plants such as ficus, beaucarneas or phoenix, as well as succulents or carnivorous plants, like direct sunlight.
Plants that prefer indirect light
Plants such as spathiphyllum, cycas, and schefflera prefer a west-facing location, very bright but without direct sunlight or at the very end of the day when it is mildest .
Plants that tolerate partial shade
Green foliage plants such as asparagus, anthurium, ivy, and aglaonema are generally less demanding in terms of light and can be installed with a north exposure.
Those that appreciate light sunlight, such as kentia, philodendron, or alocasia, prefer a location behind an east-facing window.
The light requirements of houseplants are determined by their natural environment. It is crucial to adjust the lighting according to these specific needs to ensure their health and growth ☀️
Artificial lighting is an effective solution to compensate for a lack of natural light, allowing us to meet the requirements of different varieties of houseplants.
By following these tips, you can create an optimal environment for your plants, helping them thrive indoors. 🌿