The health of your indoor plants hinges on certain key factors, like water, soil, and light.
Light of one of the most paramount prerequisites that plants require to thrive at their maximum potential.
We love placing our beautiful indoor plants near windows so that they can receive adequate light and make our neighbors jealous. The direction your windows face, whether north, south, east, or west, dramatically affects the amount and intensity of sunlight that graces your indoor greenery.
Today, we will briefly examine some of the most impressive east facing window plants that thrive near east-facing windows.
We are going to dive into the realm of east-facing window plants and examine their varieties and maintenance guidelines.
Let’s begin!
Essentials of East-Facing Windows and Their Effects on Plants!
East-facing windows offer moderate morning sunlight, perfect for many indoor plants.
The light from the east is more relaxed and less intense compared to south-facing windows, thereby making it ideal for plants that prefer indirect or filtered light.
However, some plant species needing prolonged bright light might find it insufficient.
Using outside-mounted zebra shades can help manage light exposure, ensuring optimal conditions for all plants, even those preferring shadier environments.
Plant Options for East-Facing Windows!
Numerous indoor plant species have specifically evolved to thrive in east-facing environments.
1. African Violet (Saintpaulia)
The African Violet, a popular indoor plant, thrives near east-facing windows.
This plant is favored for its ability to bloom year-round with proper care, producing blossoms in diverse hues ranging from blue to violet to pink.
- Light: Prefers light that is bright to medium and not direct.
- Water: Allow the top inch of the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Soil: Requires soil with effective drainage.
- Temperature: Does best in temperatures between 65–75°F.
- Fertilizer: Use a balanced, liquid fertilizer every 4–6 weeks.
Over-watering is a common issue, which can lead to root rot. Ensure the plant’s soil is not soggy and has proper drainage to avoid this problem.
2. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Spider plants, known for their adaptability and ease of growth, thrive well in east-facing windows.
They are characterized by their arching, striped foliage that brings a unique aesthetic appeal to any living space.
- Light: Enjoys bright to medium, filtered sunlight.
- Water: Keep the soil slightly moist but avoid overwatering.
- Soil: Prefers loamy soil with efficient drainage.
- Temperature: Ideal temperature range is between 60–75°F.
- Fertilizer: Feed with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2–3 weeks during the growing season.
Spider plants are often susceptible to brown leaf tips, which could be due to over-fertilization, poor water quality, or low humidity.
Regularly checking these factors can help keep your spider plant healthy.
3. Moth Orchid (Phalaenopsis)
Moth Orchids are one of the most popular types of Orchids due to their long-lasting flowers and relative ease of care.
The moderate sunlight from east-facing windows is perfect for these stunning houseplants.
- Light: Prefers bright, diffused light. Too much direct sunlight can cause leaf burn, while insufficient light can lead to poor flowering.
- Water: Water thoroughly once a week, but let the plant drain completely to avoid waterlogged roots.
- Soil: Thrives in an Orchid mix with adequate drainage, usually made of bark chips, which allows the roots to get lots of air.
- Temperature: Grows ideally in intermediate temperatures, with daytime temperatures of 75–85°F and nighttime temperatures of 60–65°F.
- Fertilizer: Use a water-soluble Orchid fertilizer every 2–3 weeks during the growing season.
Excessive watering often results in root decay.
Ensure your Moth Orchid is well-drained after watering, and never let it sit in water. On the other hand, wrinkled leaves may indicate under-watering or too low humidity.
4. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum)
Peace Lilies, known for their striking white flowers and lush green foliage, are favored as one of the best indoor plants.
They are an excellent option for east-facing windows, as they enjoy the moderate light these windows provide.
- Light: Prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light conditions.
- Water: Water thoroughly but allow the top inch of the soil to dry out between waterings.
- Soil: Enjoys rich soil with good drainage.
- Temperature: Thrives in temperatures of 65–85°F.
- Fertilizer: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 6–8 weeks during the growing season.
Overwatering and underwatering can lead to soggy roots and brown leaf tips.
Pay close attention to watering needs and adjust as necessary.
5. Jade Plant (Crassula ovata)
Jade Plants, known for their thick, woody stems and oval-shaped leaves, make great houseplants for east-facing windows due to their preference for morning sunlight.
- Light: Flourishes in bright light and can tolerate some direct sunlight.
- Water: Water thoroughly, then allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings.
- Soil: Prefers a succulent mix with good water run-off.
- Temperature: Thrives at standard room temperatures (around 68–77°F) during the growing season but favors chillier temperatures (around 55°F) during its winter rest period.
- Fertilizer: Use a water-soluble fertilizer designed for succulents every 4–6 weeks during the growing season.
Excessive watering may result in root rot.
Let the soil dry out between waterings and ensure it’s potted in a well-draining soil mix.
6. Devil’s Ivy (Epipremnum aureum)
Also known as Golden Pothos, Devil’s Ivy is a hardy, vining plant that’s an excellent choice for east-facing windows.
Its heart-shaped leaves often have yellow or white variegations.
- Light: Prefers bright, low-intensity light but can tolerate lower light conditions.
- Water: Give a generous watering and let the soil get dry before watering again.
- Soil: Favors soil with effective drainage.
- Temperature: Thrives in a wide range of temperatures, from 60–80°F.
- Fertilizer: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer every 2–3 months.
Yellow leaves often indicate over-watering. Ensure the plant’s soil drains well and allow it to dry out between waterings.
The key to a healthy indoor garden is understanding the specific needs of your chosen plants.
Now, let’s look at some familiar challenges these plants may face.
Handling Challenges!
Indoor plants may experience leaf scorching or color fading, particularly in summer.
Mitigate these issues by adjusting the plant’s position or using protective shades. Regular inspections and a consistent watering schedule are also beneficial.
Bringing It All Together! | A Green Oasis in Your Home
Creating a thriving indoor garden involves understanding each plant’s specific needs.
For east-facing windows, African Violets, Spider Plants, Moth Orchids, Peace Lilies, Jade Plants, and Devil’s Ivy are excellent choices.
Cater to their requirements and manage their water needs to maintain a vibrant indoor garden.
Regards!