The "Orbits" of Houseplant Lighting

The "Orbits" of Houseplant Lighting

The sun powers all life on the planet — including our houseplants — but some need more light than others. In keeping with our space theme for Houseplant Month 2024, we've grouped several plants into different "orbits" according to how much light they require, with plants needing more light falling into a closer orbit and those needing less falling into a further orbit.

Think of these orbits as a proxy for how close to a light source that a plant needs to be. The more light it requires, the closer its "orbit." Of course, it's important to keep in mind that not all light sources are created equal. The light bulbs found in the average home typically don't cover a broad enough spectrum of light with enough power to sufficiently power your plants, in comparison to a grow lamp manufactured for this purpose. Even your windows are different: South-facing windows receive far more light than ones facing north, so adjust accordingly when deciding where to place your plants.

Near-Orbit Plants

What we are calling "near-orbit" plants require high-lighting, which can be found in a south-facing window, or under a strong grow light. Most succulents, cacti, hoyas, and woody or otherwise large houseplants will fall into this category.

The following are the varieties pictured above:

Mid-Orbit Plants

'Mid-orbit" plants require moderate levels of light like that found in an east or west-facing window — or near a grow light, perhaps behind a plant that requires higher light. In general, many philodendrons, calatheas, and syngoniums are good candidates for medium-light situations.

The following are the varieties pictured above:

Outer-Orbit Plants

We consider these houseplants to fall into the "outer-orbit," meaning they are adapted to life with less available sunlight. These plants will perform just fine in a north-facing window, or slightly further from a grow light. But keep in mind that nothing will grow in the dark! Even low-light plants need to be relatively close to a light source, as the light available to them drops off exponentially the further from a light source you get. In general, ferns, pothos, peace lilies, aglaonemas, and dieffenbachias are all good candidates for low-light situations. 

The following are the varieties pictured above:

In addition to all of the plants mentioned above, we have a huge selection of houseplants right now at the Farm just waiting to be explored. As always, feel free to ask any of our team members for help in picking out or caring for your plants — whether it's Houseplant Month or not!

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