How to Know If Your Houseplant Needs More Humidity

Dry air and wreak havoc your plants delicate leaves .

Humidity is crucial for houseplants' health, especially those like ferns, philodendrons, and peace lilies, which originate from tropical regions with moist air. During fall and winter, indoor air becomes drier due to heating, challenging these plants' needs. As seasons change, inspect your plants for signs of low humidity, such as browning leaf tips, wilting, stunted growth, crispy leaves, or smaller new growth. To increase humidity, group plants together, use a humidifier, or place a water-filled tray with pebbles beneath them. These steps help houseplants thrive in dry conditions, ensuring they remain healthy and vibrant through colder months.

Sign 1: The Edges And Tips Of Your Houseplant Leaves Become Brown And Crispy

This is quite common in houseplants like peace lilies and ferns, but you may notice it on all your tropical houseplants. Typically, the pointed tips of the houseplant begin to turn brown and dry. It may even extend to a thin strip along the leaf edges. This is especially true for new growth, which is soft and tender. 

Do brown tips damage your houseplants?

Fortunately, this isn't a major problem that will damage your plant. Just keep an eye on it, and if it starts to spread, you might need to think about increasing your humidity levels. 

Sign 2: Despite Regular Watering, the Leaves Are Still Wilting 

We need to exercise caution here, as humidity is not the most frequent cause of leaf wilting, though it certainly can be a factor. If your houseplant leaves are wilting, first ensure that you are not overwatering them. Typically, you should allow the soil to nearly dry out before watering. If you're confident that your plant is receiving the correct amount of water, then consider the humidity levels. 

What can I do to remedy wilting leaves caused by low humidity?

To quickly address humidity issues, arrange plants in clusters. Plant leaves release moisture, and when they are placed together, they form a small humid microclimate. Alternatively, consider using a humidifier!

Sign 3: You Observe Leaves Curling or Shriveling

Many popular houseplants, such as calathea, monstera, and rubber plants, can be quite sensitive to humidity fluctuations. You may observe the edges of the plant's leaves curling inward or beginning to shrivel. This typically indicates that your plant requires more moisture in the air. 

Top Humidity-Loving Houseplants

During our recent visit to South America, we were amazed by the size and lushness of traditional houseplants in this region. Monsteras climb trees, and orchids hang bare-rooted in the streets. This is because these plants are native to tropical or subtropical areas like this, where they flourish due to the moisture-rich air. If you own any of the following plants, it's essential to consider their humidity requirements:

• Ferns (especially Boston or maidenhair)

• Calatheas (also known as prayer plants)

• Orchids

• Peace lilies

• Monstera deliciosa