How to Grow Plants in a Room in an Apartment: Myths, Truths, and Best Practices

Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you have to give up on the idea of having lush, green plants. Even if you have limited sunlight or no direct sunlight at all, you can still create a thriving indoor garden. The key is to understand which plants can adapt to low-light environments and how to care for them properly. In this post, we’ll explore which plants grow well in less or no sunlight, debunk some common myths, and provide realistic solutions for maintaining healthy plants indoors.

Can Plants Survive Without Any Sunlight?

Let’s address the big question first: Can plants live without sunlight? The simple answer is no, but there’s a catch. Plants need some form of light to perform photosynthesis, which is essential for their survival. However, some plants can survive in extremely low-light conditions with the help of artificial lighting or indirect natural light.

While plants won’t thrive in absolute darkness, there are ways to work around low-light conditions and still maintain a beautiful indoor garden. Let’s debunk some common myths surrounding this topic before we dive into plant recommendations.

Myths and Truths About Growing Plants Indoors

Myth #1: All Plants Need Direct Sunlight to Survive

Truth: While most plants do best with direct or indirect sunlight, some species, such as snake plants and ZZ plants, can tolerate very low-light conditions and still survive. They grow slower but remain healthy.

Myth #2: Artificial Light Can’t Replace Sunlight

Truth: While natural sunlight is always preferable, certain artificial grow lights can help plants photosynthesize effectively. LED grow lights, in particular, mimic natural light and provide the necessary wavelengths for plant growth.

Myth #3: Plants Die Instantly in Dark Places

Truth: Plants won’t die immediately in dark rooms, but they will gradually weaken and eventually perish if they don’t receive any light at all. Some low-light plants can survive for extended periods in darkness, but they will need occasional exposure to light to stay healthy.

Myth #4: The More Water You Give a Plant, the Better It Grows

Truth: Overwatering is actually one of the main reasons plants die indoors. Most low-light plants require minimal watering, and their roots can rot if they sit in too much moisture.

Best Plants for Low or No Sunlight Conditions

If your apartment lacks direct sunlight, don’t worry. Here are some plants that can thrive in low-light environments:

1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria) – The Ultimate Survivor

• One of the toughest indoor plants, snake plants can survive with minimal light and occasional watering.
• They also improve indoor air quality by filtering out toxins.

2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) – Thrives on Neglect

• This plant can live in very low-light conditions and is nearly impossible to kill.
• Requires watering only once every few weeks.

3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) – The Adaptable Vine

• Grows well in low-light conditions and is great for hanging baskets.
• Can tolerate occasional neglect and purifies the air.

4. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) – The Elegant Blooming Plant

• Can thrive in low to moderate light.
• Produces beautiful white flowers and helps improve indoor air quality.

5. Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior) – Indestructible Beauty

• This plant is incredibly hardy and can survive in dark rooms with very little care.

6. Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema) – The Stylish Choice

• Thrives in dimly lit spaces and requires little maintenance.

7. Ferns (Various Species) – The Humidity Lovers

• Ferns, like the Boston fern, can survive in low light but require higher humidity.

8. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) – Great for Beginners

• Can grow in low light and is excellent for removing toxins from the air.

How to Care for Plants in Low-Light Apartments

Even though these plants can survive with little light, they still require proper care. Here’s what you need to keep in mind:

1. Use Artificial Lighting if Needed

• If your apartment is very dark, consider using LED grow lights or fluorescent bulbs to supplement light.
• Place lights close to the plants and keep them on for about 12-16 hours a day.

2. Be Mindful of Watering

• Plants in low-light environments need less water since they grow slower and retain moisture longer.
• Always check the soil before watering—if it’s still damp, wait a few more days.

3. Improve Air Circulation

• Proper airflow prevents mold and fungal growth in plants.
• Keep windows open occasionally or use a fan to maintain circulation.

4. Rotate Your Plants

• If your plants receive limited sunlight from a window, rotate them every few days to ensure even growth.

5. Use Well-Draining Soil

• Choose soil that drains well to prevent root rot, especially for plants that require infrequent watering.

6. Clean Leaves Regularly

• Dust buildup on leaves can block light absorption.
• Wipe leaves with a damp cloth to keep them clean and healthy.

How to Create a Plant-Friendly Apartment Even with Minimal Sunlight

Even if your apartment has very little light, you can still make it work. Here are some ideas to create an indoor garden:

1. Use Reflective Surfaces

• Mirrors and light-colored walls can help distribute whatever little light you have, helping plants absorb more.

2. Choose the Right Planters

• Opt for breathable pots (like terracotta) to prevent overwatering issues.

3. Group Plants Together

• Grouping plants can help maintain humidity levels, especially for plants like ferns that need more moisture.

4. Experiment with Hydroponics

• Some plants, like pothos and lucky bamboo, can grow in water with minimal light.

5. Try Hanging Plants Near Windows

• If floor space is limited, use hanging baskets near windows to maximize indirect sunlight.

In the end…

Growing plants in a low-light apartment isn’t impossible—it just requires the right choices and a little creativity. While plants can’t survive in complete darkness indefinitely, many species thrive in minimal light and can adapt well with artificial lighting. By choosing the right plants, maintaining proper care, and debunking myths about indoor gardening, you can create a beautiful, green oasis in any apartment.

So, if you’ve been hesitating to start an indoor garden due to lack of sunlight, now’s the time to get started. With the right approach, your apartment can be filled with life, greenery, and fresh air, no matter how small or dimly lit it may be!