An indoor greenhouse is a perfect way to grow plants year-round, even in the smallest of spaces. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced gardener, the right plants can transform your indoor greenhouse into a lush, vibrant sanctuary. Here’s a guide to the 12 best plants for an indoor greenhouse and tips to help them thrive.
Why Use an Indoor Greenhouse?
Indoor greenhouses offer several advantages that make them an excellent choice for plant enthusiasts.
Benefits of Indoor Greenhouses
- Year-Round Growing Conditions
Indoor greenhouses provide a controlled environment, allowing plants to thrive regardless of the season or weather. - Protection from Pests and Fluctuating Temperatures
By shielding plants from pests and maintaining consistent conditions, indoor greenhouses help ensure healthy growth.
Ideal Conditions for an Indoor Greenhouse
- Humidity Control: Many plants, especially tropical varieties, need high humidity levels to thrive.
- Light Regulation: Grow lights or positioning near windows ensure plants receive adequate light.
- Temperature Management: Maintaining warm, consistent temperatures fosters optimal growth.
For creative ideas on building your greenhouse, explore 10 DIY indoor greenhouse ideas for every home.
12 Best Plants to Grow in an Indoor Greenhouse
1. Orchids (Phalaenopsis and Dendrobium)
Elegant and exotic, orchids are a standout choice for indoor greenhouses.
- Light Needs: Bright, indirect light.
- Care Tips: Provide high humidity and water when the potting medium feels dry.
2. Ferns (Boston and Staghorn Ferns)
Ferns bring a touch of greenery with their feathery fronds.
- Light Needs: Low to medium indirect light.
- Care Tips: Mist regularly and keep soil moist but not soggy.
3. African Violets (Saintpaulia)
These charming plants are known for their colorful blooms and compact size.
- Light Needs: Bright, filtered light.
- Care Tips: Water from the base to avoid leaf damage and keep temperatures warm.
4. Bromeliads
Bromeliads add a tropical flair with their unique structure and vibrant colors.
- Light Needs: Bright, indirect light.
- Care Tips: Keep water in the central cup and maintain a humid environment.
5. Philodendrons
Philodendrons are versatile and forgiving, perfect for any indoor greenhouse.
- Light Needs: Low to medium indirect light.
- Care Tips: Water sparingly and allow the soil to dry slightly between watering.
6. Anthuriums
Anthuriums boast glossy leaves and striking, long-lasting flowers.
- Light Needs: Bright, indirect light.
- Care Tips: Maintain high humidity and avoid overwatering.
7. Peperomia
These low-maintenance plants are loved for their attractive foliage.
- Light Needs: Medium to bright indirect light.
- Care Tips: Use well-draining soil and water only when the topsoil is dry.
8. Calatheas
Calatheas are known for their intricate leaf patterns and love for humid environments.
- Light Needs: Low to medium filtered light.
- Care Tips: Keep the soil consistently moist and avoid direct sunlight.
9. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Pothos is one of the easiest plants to grow, making it ideal for beginners.
- Light Needs: Tolerates low to bright indirect light.
- Care Tips: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot.
10. Spider Plants (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants are adaptable and resilient, perfect for any indoor setup.
- Light Needs: Bright, indirect light.
- Care Tips: Water moderately and trim off browned tips for a neat appearance.
11. Moth Orchids (Phalaenopsis)
With their stunning blooms, moth orchids are a favorite for indoor greenhouses.
- Light Needs: Bright, indirect light.
- Care Tips: Keep the environment humid and water sparingly but consistently.
12. Succulents
Succulents are low-maintenance and thrive in a sunny indoor greenhouse.
- Light Needs: Bright, direct sunlight.
- Care Tips: Water sparingly and ensure the soil is well-draining.
For more suggestions, explore Molly’s guide to the best plants for an indoor greenhouse.
Tips for Success with an Indoor Greenhouse
Setting Up the Perfect Environment
- Use grow lights to supplement natural light in low-light areas.
- Add humidity trays or misters for plants that require higher moisture levels.
- Use heating mats to maintain warm temperatures for tropical plants.
Watering and Fertilizing
- Avoid overwatering by checking soil moisture levels before watering.
- Use plant-specific fertilizers to promote healthy growth and flowering.
Managing Pests
- Regularly inspect plants for signs of pests like spider mites or aphids.
- Keep the greenhouse clean and use natural remedies to prevent infestations.
The Role of Air Circulation in Indoor Greenhouses
Good air circulation is vital for maintaining a healthy indoor greenhouse environment. Stagnant air can lead to mold growth, fungal diseases, and pest infestations. Using small fans or strategically placed ventilation openings ensures fresh air reaches every plant, promoting robust growth and reducing the risk of problems. Proper airflow also helps regulate humidity levels, creating the perfect balance for tropical plants like ferns and bromeliads.
Combining Plants for Aesthetic Appeal
Create a visually stunning indoor greenhouse by combining plants with complementary colors, textures, and growth habits. Pair vibrant bromeliads with the delicate foliage of ferns for contrast, or group succulents with pothos for a mix of structure and cascading greenery. Using tiered shelving or hanging planters enhances the visual effect, maximizing the use of vertical space and showcasing the unique beauty of each plant.
Incorporating Lighting Solutions for Optimal Growth
Proper lighting is essential for the success of your indoor greenhouse, especially in areas with limited natural light. Grow lights, such as LED or fluorescent bulbs, provide the spectrum of light plants need for photosynthesis, ensuring healthy growth. Position the lights 6–12 inches above the plants for even coverage, and use timers to mimic natural day and night cycles. For plants with varying light needs, like succulents and ferns, adjust the intensity and duration to suit their specific requirements. Incorporating effective lighting solutions will not only support plant health but also allow you to grow a wider variety of species.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do All Plants Thrive in Indoor Greenhouses?
Not all plants are suitable for indoor greenhouses. Tropical plants like orchids and ferns excel, while others may require different environments.
How Often Should I Water Plants in an Indoor Greenhouse?
Watering frequency depends on the plant type. For instance, succulents need less frequent watering than ferns or bromeliads.
What Are the Easiest Plants for Beginners?
Pothos, spider plants, and peperomia are great low-maintenance options for new gardeners.
Conclusion
An indoor greenhouse is a fantastic way to enjoy gardening year-round, even with limited space. By selecting the right plants, such as vibrant bromeliads, hardy pothos, or elegant orchids, you can create a lush and thriving indoor garden.
These 12 plants not only enhance the beauty of your greenhouse but also offer varying levels of care, making them perfect for both beginners and experienced gardeners. Start your indoor greenhouse journey today, and transform your home into a vibrant, green oasis!