How to Care for Low Light Hanging Plants in Humid Rooms (2025 Guide)


Discover the best tips for keeping your low light hanging plants thriving in humid rooms! Learn about ideal plant choices, watering routines, and maintenance tricks for lush, healthy greenery.

Introduction

Did you know that some of the most resilient houseplants thrive in low light and high humidity? If you’ve struggled with keeping hanging plants alive in dim, moist spaces like bathrooms or basements, this guide is for you! We’ll walk you through the best low light hanging plants for humid conditions, how to water them properly, and simple care routines to prevent common issues like mold or root rot. Let’s turn your space into a thriving indoor jungle!

Best Low Light Hanging Plants for Humid Rooms

Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

If you’re new to houseplants or just want something low-maintenance, pothos is a fantastic choice. This hardy vine thrives in low light and loves humidity, making it perfect for bathrooms or kitchens. It grows quickly, so you’ll see long, trailing vines in no time. Plus, it’s forgiving if you forget to water it occasionally.

Philodendron Heartleaf

Another great option for humid spaces, the heartleaf philodendron has lush, heart-shaped leaves that cascade beautifully from hanging planters. It tolerates low light well and enjoys the extra moisture in the air. Just keep it out of direct sunlight, which can scorch its leaves.

Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

Spider plants are practically indestructible. They adapt well to low light and thrive in humid conditions. Bonus: they’re excellent air purifiers. You’ll also love the little “spiderettes” they produce—these can be propagated to grow even more plants!

Ferns (e.g., Boston Fern, Maidenhair Fern)

Ferns are humidity lovers, but they do need some indirect light to stay healthy. Boston ferns are particularly popular for their feathery fronds, while maidenhair ferns offer delicate, lacy foliage. Just be mindful—they can be a bit fussy if the air is too dry.

Peperomia

If you’re short on space, peperomia is a great compact option. Its thick, waxy leaves help it retain moisture, making it ideal for humid rooms. There are many varieties to choose from, all with unique leaf shapes and colors.

Essential Care Tips for Low Light Hanging Plants

Watering

Overwatering is one of the biggest killers of houseplants. Always check the soil before watering—stick your finger about an inch deep. If it feels dry, it’s time to water. If it’s still damp, wait a few more days.

Drainage

Good drainage is crucial to prevent root rot. Make sure your hanging pots have drainage holes, and consider using a well-draining potting mix. If water pools at the bottom, your plant’s roots will suffer.

Misting

Many tropical plants love humidity, but soaking the soil isn’t the answer. Instead, lightly mist the leaves every few days to give them a moisture boost. Just don’t overdo it—too much misting can lead to fungal problems.

Cleaning Leaves

Dust can block light absorption, especially in low-light conditions. Wipe the leaves gently with a damp cloth every couple of weeks to keep them clean and efficient at photosynthesis.

Managing Humidity Without Overdoing It

Use a Hygrometer

Humidity levels can be tricky to gauge by feel alone. A hygrometer helps you monitor moisture in the air so you can adjust accordingly. Most tropical plants prefer humidity between 50-60%.

Ventilation

While humidity is great, stagnant air can lead to mold or mildew. Make sure your space has some airflow—a small fan or an open window (when weather permits) can help.

Group Plants Together

Plants release moisture through transpiration, so grouping them creates a mini-humid microclimate. This is especially helpful in dry homes.

Avoid Over-Misting

It’s tempting to mist plants daily, but too much moisture on leaves can invite fungal infections. Stick to light misting a few times a week, and focus on plants that truly benefit from it (like ferns and philodendrons).

Common Problems & Solutions

Yellow Leaves

If your plant’s leaves are turning yellow, overwatering is often the culprit. Check the soil—if it’s soggy, let it dry out before watering again. Adjust your schedule based on the plant’s needs.

Brown Tips

Brown, crispy leaf tips usually signal low humidity or chemicals in tap water. Try using filtered or distilled water, and increase humidity with a pebble tray or humidifier.

Pests (e.g., Spider Mites)

Spider mites and other pests love dry, dusty leaves. If you spot tiny webs or speckled leaves, wipe them down with a neem oil solution. Regular cleaning helps prevent infestations.

Leggy Growth

If your plant looks stretched out or sparse, it might not be getting enough light. Rotate it occasionally to ensure even exposure, or move it to a slightly brighter spot (still indirect light). Pruning can also encourage bushier growth.

By choosing the right plants and following these care tips, you can enjoy lush, healthy hanging greenery even in low-light, humid spaces. Happy planting!

Conclusion

Caring for low light hanging plants in humid rooms doesn’t have to be tricky! By choosing the right plants, mastering watering habits, and balancing humidity levels, you can enjoy lush, healthy greenery all year round. Ready to transform your space? Start with a resilient Pothos or a forgiving Spider Plant and watch them thrive!

Photo of Harper Dawson
Written by Harper Dawson on