Living in an apartment without windows can be a challenge when it comes to decoration and well-being. The lack of natural light can affect the atmosphere of the space and limit plant options, as most plants rely on sunlight to grow healthily. However, it’s not impossible to create a green and welcoming space, even in windowless apartments, as long as you choose the right plants.
In this article, we will explore the best plant options for apartments without windows, focusing on those that are resilient in low-light or even lightless environments. Additionally, we will discuss the specific care needs of these plants and how they can transform your home into a more pleasant, healthy, and lively environment.
The Challenging Lack of Natural Light in Apartments
Natural light is essential for most plants, as it provides the energy needed for photosynthesis. However, in apartments without windows, where direct sunlight is scarce or nonexistent, plants require special care to survive and thrive.
Fortunately, there are many adaptable and resilient plants that don’t require direct sunlight to grow. These plants can thrive in low-light environments, making them perfect for closed spaces like bathrooms, hallways, or even windowless offices.
How Plants Adapt to the Lack of Light
Before we dive into the best plants for apartments without windows, it’s important to understand how plants can survive in low-light environments. The primary strategy for these plants is their ability to perform photosynthesis with less light. Many of them have thicker leaves, with greater light storage capacity, and some can even convert artificial light into enough energy for their survival.
Additionally, plants that adapt well to windowless spaces often have dark green foliage, which helps absorb light more efficiently. These plants tend to grow slower, as the lack of light accelerates the aging process of plant cells.
The Best Plants for Apartments Without Windows
Now, let’s take a look at the best plants for low-light environments, those that will thrive in spaces with little or no natural light, creating a green and cozy atmosphere in your apartment.
Zamioculca (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)
The Zamioculca, also known as ZZ plant, is one of the most resilient and adaptable plants for low-light environments. It can grow in areas with little light, such as hallways and windowless offices, and still remain healthy. Its green leaves help reflect available light, and the plant also has an incredible ability to store water, making it more resistant to dryness.
Care: The ZZ plant is low-maintenance. It prefers dry soil, so it should be watered sparingly. Avoid overwatering, as the plant can rot if the soil remains soggy.
Sansevieria (Sansevieria trifasciata)
The Sansevieria, also known as snake plant, is another excellent option for apartments without windows. It is famous for its resilience and ability to survive in low-light conditions. Its upright, sword-shaped leaves add an interesting texture to the space. Additionally, the Sansevieria purifies the air, making it even more beneficial for health.
Care: The Sansevieria can be watered sporadically, as it retains moisture in its leaves. It adapts well to various types of soil and requires minimal maintenance.
Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos, also known as devil’s ivy, is a popular climbing plant known for its resilience and beauty. It thrives well in low-light environments, making it an excellent choice for windowless indoor spaces. Its green and yellow foliage adapts easily to shadier areas, and the plant can be trained to climb or allowed to trail along shelves or walls.
Care: Pothos requires little light and can tolerate periods of dryness. Water when the soil feels dry to the touch, and avoid direct sun exposure.
Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
The Jade Plant, or money tree, is a succulent that can also adapt to indoor environments with low light. While it prefers indirect light, it can survive in areas with limited light. Its thick, water-storing leaves make this plant ideal for those who have difficulty keeping up with watering routines.
Care: The Jade Plant is low-maintenance, requiring only occasional watering and well-drained soil. Avoid overwatering, as the plant may rot.
Snake Plant (Sansevieria cylindrica)
Another variety of Sansevieria that is perfect for low-light spaces is the cylindrical snake plant, which adapts well to darker areas and grows easily. Its thin, upright leaves make it an excellent choice for decorating small or narrow spaces.
Care: The cylindrical snake plant is highly resilient and requires minimal water. Water only when the soil is dry.
Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus Lyrata)
Although Ficus Lyrata, or fiddle leaf fig, is better known for its preference for indirect light, it can adapt well to low-light conditions as long as it’s not exposed to complete darkness. Its large leaves and striking appearance bring a tropical touch to the space, making it a standout plant in any room.
Care: Ficus Lyrata prefers well-drained soil and should be watered regularly, but without saturating the soil. Be careful not to expose it to direct light for long periods.
Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
The Spider Plant, or air plant, is a perennial that adapts well to low-light environments. Its long, arching leaves make it an excellent choice for shelves or hanging baskets. The Spider Plant is also known for its air-purifying properties, making it an ideal option for those wanting to improve indoor air quality.
Care: The Spider Plant is easy to care for and can tolerate dry spells. Water moderately, allowing the soil to dry between waterings.
How to Maintain Plants in Windowless Environments
Although these plants are adaptable and can survive in low-light conditions, there are a few special care tips you can adopt to ensure they thrive:
Use Artificial Light
While these plants can adapt to low light, artificial light can help stimulate their growth. Use fluorescent or LED plant-specific lights, which emit a light spectrum suitable for photosynthesis.
Avoid Overwatering
Plants in low-light environments tend to grow slower, meaning they don’t need as much watering. Avoid overwatering, as excess water can lead to root rot.
Choose the Right Pots
Make sure the pots have good drainage to avoid water accumulation. Use well-draining soil, especially for plants that require less water, like succulents.
Rotate the Plants
If possible, rotate your plants from time to time, placing them in spots that receive a bit more light. This can help them stay healthy and avoid uneven growth.
Conclusion
Although the lack of windows may seem like a barrier to having plants in your apartment, with the right plant choices and special care, it’s entirely possible to create a green, healthy environment. The plants mentioned in this article are ideal for windowless apartments, as they adapt to the lack of natural light and can help purify the air and improve your well-being.
With a little dedication and attention, you can transform your windowless apartment into a true green oasis, full of life and color.