Hey there, fellow plant enthusiasts! I'm relatively new to owning plants and could use some guidance. I live in Oregon, where the weather can be gloomy and cold for half the year. I'm wondering how I can ensure my plants get the sunlight they need to thrive during these darker months. Any tips would be greatly appreciated!
5 Answers
One way to help with growth when the light is low is to keep your indoor temperatures cool. Lower temps can actually slow down growth, which is good when there’s less light. I usually keep my house around 18°C in winter. Definitely look into some quality grow lights too!
You'll be good with a north or east-facing window! Most indoor plants can survive in those conditions. But if you want them to really thrive, a grow light could make a big difference.
I totally get your concerns! As someone living on the West Coast too, I recommend placing sun-loving plants like cacti or polka-dot plants on a windowsill where they can soak up direct sunlight. If you don’t have south-facing windows, try using a grow light like the Barrina one; my plants love it! You should also keep an eye on how the sunlight comes into your space and adjust your plant positions accordingly. And unless you're going for high-maintenance tropicals, you probably don't need a humidifier.
For specific plants, you might need overhead lights, but not for all. I highly recommend trying a Monstera Deliciosa. It's a stunning plant that grows large without needing a ton of light, making it perfect for your situation!
Pothos are super easy to care for and need very little light to do well. I got my first pothos 30 years ago, and he's still going strong! They're a great choice for beginners like you.
Great advice! Just an added tip: during winter, if you have central heating, a humidifier can be beneficial if you decide to get some more needy plants.