Bringing nature into your home enhances the atmosphere of personal living spaces. Houseplants introduce organic texture and color, creating a tranquil and visually appealing environment. The bedroom benefits from this addition, transforming a functional space into a sanctuary. Selecting the right species means choosing varieties that are visually appealing and tolerant of minimal attention, ensuring the greenery is a source of calm, not a chore.
Selecting Plants Based on Bedroom Conditions
The typical bedroom environment presents unique challenges for plant life. Many bedrooms receive limited natural light, requiring plants to be highly tolerant of low-light conditions. This lack of intense sunlight means species that naturally grow under a dense canopy are most likely to thrive in these dimmer locations.
Temperature stability is another factor; bedrooms generally maintain a consistent range between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. This steady climate suits most tropical houseplants, provided they are kept away from drafts or direct heat sources. Since bedrooms often have lower humidity, the best choices are plants that store water in thick leaves or stems, or are not sensitive to dry air. Selecting species that require less frequent watering is the most effective strategy for long-term survival.
Top Recommended Low-Maintenance Bedroom Plants
The Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) is the perfect low-maintenance bedroom companion due to its extreme durability. It tolerates a wide range of light conditions, from low corners to bright, indirect light. It prefers to be watered only after the soil has completely dried out.
The ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is a resilient option known for its waxy, deep-green foliage and ability to withstand neglect. The plant stores water in large rhizomes beneath the soil, making it highly drought-tolerant. This species flourishes even in very low-light areas. Allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings is essential, as overwatering is the most common mistake.
The Pothos, or Devil’s Ivy (Epipremnum aureum), is popular for its trailing vines that look excellent on a shelf or dresser. Pothos is one of the most forgiving houseplants, capable of surviving in dim environments, though its variegation will be more pronounced in brighter, indirect light. This fast-growing plant signals its need for water clearly, as its leaves will start to droop slightly when thirsty, quickly perking up after a thorough soak.
The Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) is known for its resilience and ability to produce “spiderettes,” or small plantlets, that are easy to propagate. This plant thrives in bright, indirect light but can adapt well to lower light levels found in a bedroom. Spider Plants also tolerate slight under-watering and are very forgiving if you forget a watering session. They are excellent for beginners because their care is straightforward.
Addressing Common Safety and Maintenance Concerns
When choosing plants for a bedroom, especially in homes with pets or small children, be aware of species toxicity. Plants like Pothos and Philodendron contain insoluble calcium oxalate crystals, which can cause oral irritation, burning, and swelling if ingested. While typically not fatal, symptoms such as excessive drooling require immediate attention from a veterinarian. It is safest to place these plants in hanging baskets or on high shelves where they are completely inaccessible.
Maintaining the health of your plants also involves basic physical care beyond watering. Dust accumulates on leaves over time, which can interfere with the plant’s ability to absorb light. For plants with smooth, broad leaves, a gentle wipe with a damp, soft cloth removes this barrier and keeps the leaves functioning efficiently.
Pest prevention is another practical concern, particularly the management of fungus gnats, which are attracted to overly moist soil. These small flies breed in the top layer of damp soil, so allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings is the most effective preventative measure. Ensuring adequate air circulation around the plant also helps deter pests and reduces the risk of fungal issues.