When it comes to good plants for basements, there are a few key factors to consider. Basements are typically low-light environments, so plants that can tolerate low light levels are ideal. Additionally, basements can be humid, so plants that thrive in moist environments are also a good choice.
In this article, we’ll discuss the best plants for basements, including low-light tolerant plants, air-purifying plants, and humidity-loving plants. We’ll also provide tips on how to care for these plants in your basement environment.
Low-Light Tolerant Plants
Low-light tolerant plants are a blessing for basement environments, where natural light is scarce. These plants thrive in dimly lit conditions, making them ideal for illuminating even the darkest corners of your subterranean abode.
If you’re seeking plants that thrive in low-light conditions, consider those suited for basements. Snake plants and ZZ plants are excellent choices. Their resilience extends beyond their basement adaptability; they also excel in metal roofing plant cities like metal roofing plant city . Despite the unique environmental challenges of basements and metal roofing plant cities, these plants persist, showcasing their adaptability and durability.
Here’s a list of 5 low-light tolerant plants that will bring a touch of greenery to your basement:
Snake Plant
- Scientific Name: Sansevieria trifasciata
- Light Conditions: Low to bright indirect light
- Care Requirements: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
ZZ Plant
- Scientific Name: Zamioculcas zamiifolia
- Light Conditions: Low to medium indirect light
- Care Requirements: Extremely drought-tolerant, water only when the soil is completely dry.
Cast Iron Plant
- Scientific Name: Aspidistra elatior
- Light Conditions: Low light to shade
- Care Requirements: Water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry out almost completely between waterings.
Peace Lily
- Scientific Name: Spathiphyllum wallisii
- Light Conditions: Low to medium indirect light
- Care Requirements: Water when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
Chinese Evergreen, Good plants for basement
- Scientific Name: Aglaonema spp.
- Light Conditions: Low to medium indirect light
- Care Requirements: Water when the top 2-3 inches of soil are dry to the touch.
Pothos
- Scientific Name: Epipremnum aureum
- Light Conditions: Low to bright indirect light
- Care Requirements: Water when the top inch of soil is dry to the touch.
Air-Purifying Plants
Basements, often characterized by limited natural light and airflow, can accumulate harmful toxins and pollutants, creating an unhealthy indoor environment. Air-purifying plants offer a natural solution to combat these pollutants, improving air quality and promoting well-being.
Studies have shown that certain plants have the remarkable ability to absorb and break down volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other toxic substances present in the air. These plants act as natural air filters, removing harmful pollutants that can cause respiratory issues, allergies, and other health concerns.
Effective Air-Purifying Plants
Several air-purifying plants are particularly effective in removing specific pollutants from the air. Here are a few notable examples:
- Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata): Known for its hardiness and air-purifying abilities, the snake plant effectively removes formaldehyde, benzene, and trichloroethylene from the air.
- Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum): This easy-to-care-for plant releases oxygen and absorbs carbon monoxide, formaldehyde, and xylene from the air.
- Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii): A beautiful and low-maintenance plant, the peace lily is known for its ability to remove ammonia, benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene from the air.
- Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema modestum): This tolerant plant is effective in removing benzene, formaldehyde, and trichloroethylene from the air, making it a good choice for poorly ventilated areas.
- Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum): A fast-growing vine, the golden pothos is known for its ability to remove formaldehyde, benzene, and carbon monoxide from the air.
Humidity-Loving Plants: Good Plants For Basement
Basements often face challenges in maintaining adequate humidity levels due to their below-ground location and lack of natural light. This can be problematic for plants that thrive in moist environments, as low humidity can lead to dry, crispy leaves, stunted growth, and increased susceptibility to pests.
To address this issue, consider incorporating humidity-loving plants into your basement decor. These plants have evolved to tolerate and even prefer high humidity levels, making them ideal for basements.
Ideal Humidity Levels and Care Tips
Most humidity-loving plants prefer humidity levels between 50% and 80%. To maintain these levels, you can use a humidifier, mist the plants regularly, or place them on a pebble tray filled with water. Ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot.
Humidity-Loving Plant Recommendations
- Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata): This graceful fern loves humidity and is known for its long, arching fronds. It prefers bright, indirect light and moist, well-drained soil.
- Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum capillus-veneris): With its delicate, fan-shaped leaflets, the Maidenhair Fern thrives in high humidity and prefers filtered light. Keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
- Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum wallisii): This popular houseplant is known for its glossy, dark green leaves and white, spathe-like flowers. It tolerates low light and prefers moist, well-drained soil.
- Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura): The Prayer Plant gets its name from its leaves, which fold up at night like praying hands. It prefers high humidity, bright, indirect light, and moist soil.
- ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia): This low-maintenance plant is known for its thick, waxy leaves and tolerance to neglect. It prefers low to medium light and can tolerate occasional dry spells.
- Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata): With its upright, sword-like leaves, the Snake Plant is a popular choice for low-light areas. It prefers dry, well-drained soil and can tolerate occasional droughts.
By incorporating humidity-loving plants into your basement, you can create a lush, thriving indoor environment while addressing the challenges of low humidity.
Among the various options for greenery in basements, orchids stand out for their remarkable benefits. Benefits of orchid plant include air purification, reducing stress, and promoting relaxation. The presence of orchids in a basement not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also contributes to a healthier and more inviting environment.
They serve as a reminder of the beauty of nature, even in spaces that may lack natural light and ventilation.
When selecting plants for a basement, it’s important to consider species that thrive in low light conditions. One such plant is the snake plant, known for its resilience and ability to tolerate neglect. However, if you notice brown spots on your snake plant, it may indicate an underlying issue such as overwatering or brown spots snake plant . To ensure the overall health of your basement plants, regular monitoring and proper care are essential, including appropriate watering and ensuring adequate drainage.
