The interior design of your home can be characterized by dark corners, whether due to limited window space or poor room orientation. But even in such areas, the green splendor does not have to be given up. The challenge, however, is to find plants that feel comfortable with minimal light and at the same time enrich the atmosphere with their charm. In many homes, there are areas that receive little direct sunlight due to structural conditions or shadows. This is where plants come into play that can adapt to such conditions. A clever selection of houseplants can not only liven up these corners, but also improve air quality and create a relaxed, tropical atmosphere.
Challenges in Plant Selection
Choosing the right plants for dark spaces requires an understanding of the specific requirements of each species. Not all houseplants are equally adaptable to low light conditions, so it is crucial to select plants that not only cope with low light but are also able to display their natural beauty in such environments.
Benefits of Plants in Dark Corners
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Aesthetic enhancement: Dark corners don't have to look gloomy. The right houseplants can transform these areas into green oases and ensure visual harmony.
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Air purification: Many houseplants help to filter pollutants from the air, which is particularly beneficial in less well-ventilated rooms.
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Stress relief: The green of the plants can not only have a calming effect, but also promote stress reduction and increase the general atmosphere of well-being.
lighting conditions in the apartment
The lighting conditions in our living spaces vary, and it is important to place plants according to their specific needs. Before we look at plants for semi-shaded areas, let's take a look at the terms that describe light intensity.
Partial shade: An area is considered partial shade if it only receives partial direct sunlight. This means that it has both diffuse, indirect light and shade. Such locations provide a middle position between full sun and complete shade.
Shady spots: Unlike dark corners, shady spots get a little more light, but not enough for plants that prefer full sun. So plants for shady spots should be less light-intensive.
Dark corners: These areas receive minimal or barely visible light. Plants that thrive here must be particularly adaptable to low light conditions.
Plants for Dark Corners
Alocasia (elephant ear)
Alocasias are true darkness lovers and thrive in areas with little light. Ideal locations are corners that are only illuminated by indirect light.
Keep the soil slightly moist and ensure high humidity. Alocasias are characterized by their rapid growth rate, which may require occasional repotting.Damage patterns:
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Yellow leaves: Overwatering can cause yellow leaves. Reduce the amount of water and allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings.
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Brown leaf edges: Too low humidity can cause this. Increase the humidity by misting regularly or place a bowl of water next to the plant.
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Leaf discoloration and deformation: If there is too little light, the leaves may lose their normal color and become irregularly deformed. Try moving the plant closer to a light source window.
Philodendron
Philodendrons are known for their heart-shaped leaves and climbing habits. They blend in well in dark corners with their dark green leaves and can provide vertical interest.
Evenly moist soil, without waterlogging, supports growth. Regularly cleaning the leaves of dust promotes photosynthesis.
Damage patterns:
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Longer internodes: If the plant does not get enough light, the distances between the leaves may become longer (internode: section of a stem between two nodes that has no leaves on it). Therefore, try moving the plant to an area with more indirect light.
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Yellow leaves: Overwatering can cause yellow leaves. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings and adjust watering.
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Dry leaf edges: The cause is too low humidity. Increase the humidity by placing the plant on a bed of gravel filled with water or by spraying it regularly.
Syngonium (arrowroot)
Syngonium are perfect for dark corners as they tolerate low light. Here too, indirect light is sufficient.
The soil should be kept evenly moist, but avoid waterlogging. Syngoniums like higher humidity, so spray occasionally.
Damage patterns:
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Poor growth and small leaves: If there is too little light, the plant may grow more slowly and produce smaller leaves. Make sure the plant gets enough light to promote normal growth.
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Brown spots: Avoid direct sunlight to prevent brown spots on the leaves. Position the plant in an area with indirect light.
Plants for partially shaded areas
Monstera (Swiss cheese plant)
Monstera plants are known for their adaptable nature. While they prefer a little more light, they will also thrive in partially shaded areas. Ideally, they should receive a few hours of indirect light.
Keep the soil evenly moist, but avoid waterlogging. Monstera plants require occasional fertilization, especially during the growing season.
Damage symptoms: Lack of light : If there is insufficient light, leaf growth may be slowed and the characteristic holes in the leaves may be smaller. Position the plant closer to a window with indirect light.
Anthurium (flamingo flower)
Anthuriums thrive in partially shaded areas and prefer diffused, indirect light. Direct sunlight should be avoided to prevent leaf damage.
Keep the soil slightly moist, but avoid waterlogging. Anthuriums like higher humidity, so regular spraying is beneficial.
Damage: Sun damage: Too much direct sunlight can cause the leaves to burn and develop brown spots. Place the plant in an area with indirect light or use curtains to reduce the intensity.
Care instructions for dark corners and shady places
Care tips for dark corners and shady places
Whether in the living room, hallway or even the bathroom, houseplants bring a lively atmosphere and green freshness. But especially in less lit areas, such as dark corners or shady places, the right care is crucial to make your "urban jungle" thrive.
General tips for care in low-light areas:
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Choosing the right plants: Choose plants that are specifically suited to low light conditions, such as alocasias, philodendrons and syngoniums. These plants are adaptable and can survive in darker corners.
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Optimize light: Make effective use of available light by placing your houseplant near windows with indirect light. Bright, reflective surfaces can also help diffuse and amplify light.
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Controlled watering: Make sure to keep the soil only slightly moist to avoid waterlogging. Too much water can cause root rot, especially in poorly lit areas where evaporation is less.
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Increase humidity: In rooms with low light, humidity may be lower. Mist your plants regularly or place bowls of water nearby to create an optimal microclimate.
Regular checks and adjustments to the needs of your plants:
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Monitor leaf health: Check leaves regularly for signs of over- or under-watering. Yellow leaves could indicate overwatering, while dry leaf edges could indicate low humidity.
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Location optimization: Depending on the season or changes in the room, find the best location for your plants. Try different places to find out where they feel most comfortable.
