Indoor Plants: An Interior Designer’s Guide of Greenery in the Home

Let’s be honest: bringing plants into your home always sounds like a good idea. Who wouldn’t want a lush, green, Instagram-worthy interior? But then reality sets in. You’re staring at your tiny Brooklyn apartment (or sprawling suburban home—lucky you!) thinking, Where does this bird’s nest fern even go? And before you know it, your indoor plant ends up in that awkward corner next to the radiator—a.k.a. The Land of Certain Death.

But here’s the thing: plants in apartments aren’t just space fillers or afterthoughts. They’re design elements—living, breathing pieces that can transform a space. Let’s talk about how to get it right and avoid turning your living room into a jungle gym for a slowly dying ficus.

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Best Indoor Plants as Interior Design Powerhouses

Indoor plants do more than just sit there looking pretty (although, yes, they do that incredibly well). They can add color, texture, and height to a room. They create a calming vibe and can even serve as sculptural elements—yes, I said it: sculptural. Many indoor plants thrive best in bright indirect light, which helps maintain their vibrant foliage without causing leaf burn. And for those of you who love a bit of drama, flowering plants often release their strongest fragrances at night. Nature’s mood lighting, if you will.

Plus, with the sheer variety of species out there, you can experiment with colors, textures, shapes, and heights. The right plant can be a conversation starter, a room divider, or even your personal statement piece—kind of like that oversized chair you bought and regretted, but way easier to love.

Benefits of Indoor Plants

Indoor plants are not just aesthetically pleasing; they also offer a plethora of benefits for our physical and mental well-being. Imagine coming home after a long day to a space filled with lush greenery—it’s like a mini-vacation for your mind. Here are some compelling reasons to bring more plants into your home:

  • Air Purification: Many indoor plants, like the snake plant and spider plant, are natural air purifiers. They remove toxins and pollutants from the air, making your home a healthier place to live.
  • Stress Reduction: Studies have shown that being around plants can significantly reduce stress and anxiety levels. Just a glance at a prayer plant or a bird’s nest fern can make you feel more relaxed.
  • Improved Mood: Indoor plants can boost your mood and overall sense of well-being. The vibrant colors and natural beauty of plants like the polka dot plant can lift your spirits.
  • Increased Productivity: Having plants in your workspace can improve focus and productivity. A few well-placed ZZ plants or air plants can make your home office a more pleasant and efficient place to work.
  • Better Sleep: Some indoor plants, such as lavender, can promote better sleep quality. Imagine drifting off to sleep with the calming scent of lavender in the air—pure bliss.

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Key Considerations Before You Buy That Monstera

  1. What’s the Point?

Ask yourself: what do you want this indoor plant to do? Accent a lonely corner? Add height to a low-slung room? Divide a space? The purpose matters. Plants aren’t just decor; they’re functional (and fabulous) additions to your overall design scheme. Treat them like art or lighting—thoughtfully and intentionally.

  1. Size Matters in Bright Indirect Light

Are you going for big, leafy drama or a more understated, minimalist vibe? Consider the plant’s future size, not just its current pint-sized adorableness at the nursery. A fiddle-leaf fig might look chic now, but in a year, it could dominate your entire living room. Got high ceilings? Go tall. Low ceilings? Keep it compact.

  1. The Room’s Personality

Not all indoor plants work in every room. Bathrooms with humidity can be a paradise for tropical plants, while succulents thrive in sunny, dry spots. Many indoor plants, such as the Bird’s Nest Fern and ZZ Plant, thrive in indirect light, making them ideal for rooms with filtered sunlight. And don’t limit greenery to living rooms. Kitchens, bathrooms, and even bedrooms can all benefit from a touch of green—just don’t put anything too fragrant near your bed unless you’re okay with waking up to a sensory overload.

Best Indoor Plants for Different Lighting Conditions

Not all indoor plants are created equal when it comes to lighting needs. Whether you have a sun-drenched living room or a dimly lit hallway, there’s a plant that will thrive in your space. Here are some of the best indoor plants for different lighting conditions:

  • Low Light: If your home lacks natural light, don’t worry. Plants like the Chinese evergreen, pothos, snake plant, and ZZ plant (also known as Zansibar gem or aroid palm) are perfect for low-light areas. These resilient plants can thrive even in the darkest corners.
  • Medium Light: For spaces with moderate light, consider the Spider Plant, Bird’s Nest Fern, and Cast-Iron Plant. These plants prefer medium light conditions and can add a touch of greenery to any room.
  • Bright Light: If you have a sunny spot, you’re in luck. Plants like the Polka Dot Plant, Swiss Cheese Plant, and Palm Trees love bright light. Just be sure to avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch their leaves.

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Bringing the Outdoors In (Even If You Don’t Have a Patio)

Who says you need a backyard to embrace greenery? Choosing the right species for your climate and light conditions can bring warmth and color to your home year-round—even in the dead of winter. Think indoor plants that are low-maintenance but high-impact: snake plants, pothos, or my personal favorite, the indestructible ZZ plant.

And if you’re short on space, don’t despair! Vertical gardens, hanging planters, or small pots on a windowsill can make just as big an impact as a massive rubber tree. It’s not about the size of the plant; it’s about how you style it. (Here’s more about this topic: Including Mother Nature into the Home.)

Creative Ways to Display Indoor Plants

Indoor plants can be more than just potted greenery—they can be stylish design elements that add character to your home. Here are some creative ways to display your indoor plants:

  • Hanging Baskets: Suspend plants like the Spider Plant or Pothos from the ceiling or a hook. This not only saves floor space but also creates a stunning visual effect.
  • Planters: Choose unique and stylish planters to add a decorative touch to your space. Whether it’s a sleek modern pot or a vintage ceramic planter, the right container can make your plant a focal point.
  • Shelves: Display multiple plants on a shelf or bookcase to create a lush, green display. Mix and match different sizes and types of plants for a dynamic look.
  • Terrariums: Create a mini-indoor garden in a glass container. Terrariums are perfect for low-maintenance plants like the ZZ Plant and can be a beautiful addition to any room.

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It’s Not All About Big Statement Plants: Prayer Plants

Sure, giant indoor plants can be showstoppers, but small ones deserve their moment too. A cluster of tiny succulents or cacti in varying textures and colors can be just as eye-catching. Or try small potted herbs in the kitchen for a mix of form and function. (Bonus: they’re delicious.)

Want to get extra creative? Mix and match different sizes and types of plants in one room. A cascading pothos paired with a spiky snake plant and a chunky cactus creates a layered, dynamic look that’s way more interesting than a lone fern in the corner.

Plant Care and Maintenance

To keep your indoor plants thriving, it’s essential to provide them with proper care and maintenance. Here are some tips to ensure your green friends stay happy and healthy:

  • Watering: Overwatering is a common mistake that can lead to root rot. Check the soil moisture before watering and avoid getting water on the leaves. Most plants prefer moist soil but not soggy conditions.
  • Humidity: Some plants (like the Bird’s Nest Fern) prefer high humidity. Use a humidifier or group plants together to create a humid microclimate. This is especially important in dry indoor environments.
  • Fertilization: Feed your plants with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season (spring and summer). This will provide them with the nutrients they need to grow strong and healthy.
  • Pruning: Prune plants regularly to maintain their shape, promote healthy growth, and encourage blooming. Removing dead or yellowing leaves can also prevent disease.

(Caring for Indoor Plants will give you more help.)

 

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Indoor Plants

When it comes to indoor plant care, there are some common mistakes that can hinder your plants’ growth. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:

  • Overwatering: This can lead to root rot and kill your plant. Always check the soil moisture before watering and ensure proper drainage.
  • Underwatering: On the other hand, underwatering can cause plants to become stressed and weak. Keep an eye on your plant’s water needs and adjust accordingly.
  • Direct Sunlight: While some plants love direct sunlight, others can become scorched or discolored. Be mindful of your plant’s light requirements and avoid placing them in harsh, direct sunlight.
  • Lack of Humidity: Some plants, like the Swiss Cheese Plant, prefer high humidity to thrive. If your home is dry, consider using a humidifier or misting your plants regularly.
  • Inadequate Fertilization: Failing to fertilize your plants can lead to weak and stunted growth. Use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to keep your plants healthy and vibrant.

By following these tips and avoiding common mistakes, you can keep your indoor plants happy and thriving.

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Final Thoughts: Indoor Plants in Interior Design

Here’s the truth: indoor plants are versatile, beautiful, and surprisingly forgiving. (Well, most of them. Looking at you, orchids.) They bring life and energy into any room, boost your mood, and can even clean the air. But the key is to treat them as you would any other design element—thoughtfully and purposefully.

So, the next time you’re itching to update your space, skip the expensive lamp and pick up a plant instead. It’s the accessory you didn’t know you needed, and it fits any budget. Just, you know, maybe don’t put it next to the radiator.

About Jarret Yoshida

Jarret Yoshida has worked in the New York interior design world for more than two decades. With a varied portfolio of projects including residential and commercial spaces, he draws inspiration from his Asian interior designer heritage to create stylish, welcoming, and sophisticated design solutions.

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