Fall is a slow and underwhelming season for avid gardeners. Summer plants start to die off or go dormant, and it’s too early to cut down a Christmas tree, right? So, what can you do to keep some of that glorious greenery in your life when the air starts to get chilly? The good news is you don’t have to give up your green thumb just because summer is over. There are a ton of low-maintenance indoor plants that can thrive right inside your home during the brisk fall season.
What makes the best indoor plants for fall?
Not every indoor plant is suitable for indoor life in the fall and winter. Many varieties need high heat and long hours of direct sunlight, and they just won’t get the vital things they need while inside your home in the fall. The days are shorter and the air is cooler, after all. To prevent the disappointment of browning or wilting leaves, look for indoor plants that have a few key characteristics so you can reap all the benefits of your fall foliage.
Pick plants with high durability
Since fall and winter produce shorter days and dryer air, direct sunlight and humidity will be scarce in your home. It’s a good idea to pick the heartiest, most resilient plant varieties that can withstand, or even prefer, the low light conditions and lower moisture levels.
Some indoor plants have great health benefits for cooler months
Among the dry, recycled air blowing around your HVAC system, there are a lot of germs, toxins, and impurities that you and your family breathe in during colder months. Fortunately, many indoor plants can improve the air quality in your home. Through the process of photosynthesis, they filter out those harmful toxins and even give the air a little more humidity. Pick indoor plant varieties that are the best air purifiers out there.
Go for some decorative beauty
Our moods and energy levels definitely take a hit during the chilly months, especially when the trees are bare and the lawn is yellowing. Arguably the best quality of indoor plants is their natural beauty and greenery. Amidst the long nights and barren lawns, having some decorative plant life around may be just what you need to brighten up your day.
What to plant indoors in October
Aglaonema
A great pick for newbie plant parents, Aglaonema doesn’t need constant care. The bushy, pointed leaves of this indoor plant are thick and lush, and they come in a couple of different shapes and colors. Colorful Aglaonema plants have green leaves with a splash of colors like yellow, orange, and red, making them a great match for your fall decor. On the other hand, spring snow Aglaonema has green leaves with lovely white spots that make the leaves look like a light snowfall have kissed them.
Proper care for Aglaonema
These plants enjoy indirect but bright, sunny spots, though they’ll survive just fine in low light conditions. You don’t need to water them very often, as they prefer to dry out completely between watering. Test the soil with your finger to be sure the top inch of dirt is fully dry before giving Aglaonemas a hearty drink.
Croton
Croton is a tropical plant that naturally comes in fall colors like red, orange, yellow, green, and even pink. Its leaves come in a variety of sizes and shapes, so you can pick one that suits your preference. Having a croton in the corner is a great way to introduce a touch of tropical paradise to an otherwise bare and dreary home.
Proper care for croton
Since it’s a tropical plant, it prefers some humidity. For best results, set it up near your humidifier or spray a mist of water on the plant occasionally to combat the dry wintry air. Some variations of croton prefer high levels of direct sunlight, so be sure to check the needs of your specific type before bringing it home.
Snake plant
Known for its incredible resilience, the snake plant is a go-to indoor plant for all seasons and is a great pick for inexperienced plant owners. The sharp, pointed leaves have a modern, chic appearance and look great in offices, living rooms, or even bathrooms.
Proper care for snake plants
While it prefers medium light, the snake plant can withstand low light conditions perfectly. If you tend to forget your watering routine, there are no worries with this tough guy since it can survive a lengthy drought.
Peace lily
A gorgeous plant with rich, dark green foliage, the peace lily is incredibly hardy and will survive the colder months in your home with ease. When winter is over, you’ll be delighted by the white, waxy flowers that bloom in the spring. As a bonus, this plant is known for its top-notch air-purifying abilities.
Proper care peace lilies
Not only does the peace lily survive extremely low-light conditions, it actually prefers them. If it’s left in direct sunlight, those gorgeous leaves will start to yellow. The peace lily will also tell you when it’s thirsty — the leaves will start to droop when it needs some moisture.
Prayer plant
Prayer plants, with their striking foliage that folds up at night resembling hands in prayer, bring a touch of nature’s serenity to indoor spaces during the cozy fall season. Their vibrant colors and unique movements make them perfect for captivating and comforting autumn decor.
Proper care for prayer plants
To care for prayer plants, place them in indirect light, keeping the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Maintain moderate humidity levels and avoid cold drafts. Trim browning leaves and fertilize every 4-6 weeks for optimal growth and stunning foliage.
Whether you’re a seasoned plant parent or you’ve just started to hone your green thumb, you probably feel that disappointing end to your gardening fun when October rolls around. With one of the most resilient indoor plants on our list, you can keep your gardening hobby alive throughout both fall and winter.
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