
The Ultimate Guide to Beginner-Friendly Low Light Hanging Plants
Discover the best low light hanging plants for beginners! This guide covers easy-care options, styling tips, and expert advice to help you bring life to dim spaces. Perfect for new plant parents!
Introduction
Did you know that some of the most beautiful houseplants thrive in low light? If you’re new to plant care or have a dimly lit space, hanging plants can be the perfect solution! Low light hanging plants add lush greenery without demanding constant sunlight—ideal for apartments, offices, or rooms with few windows. In this guide, we’ll explore the best beginner-friendly options, care tips, and creative ways to display them. Whether you’re a busy plant lover or just starting your green journey, these resilient plants will brighten up your space effortlessly. Let’s dive in!
Why Choose Low Light Hanging Plants?
Perfect for Spaces with Limited Natural Sunlight
Not every room in your home gets bright, direct sunlight—and that’s okay! Low light hanging plants are the perfect solution for dim corners, north-facing windows, or rooms with small windows. These plants have adapted to thrive in lower light conditions, so you don’t have to worry about them wilting just because they aren’t in a sun-drenched spot.
Ideal for Beginners Due to Low Maintenance
If you’re new to plant parenting, low light hanging plants are a fantastic starting point. Many of them are forgiving when it comes to irregular watering and can bounce back from minor neglect. You won’t need a green thumb to keep them happy—just a little attention now and then.
Enhance Air Quality and Aesthetics
Beyond their beauty, many low light hanging plants help purify the air by filtering out toxins. Plus, their trailing vines or lush foliage add texture and life to any space. Whether you want to soften a bare wall or add a touch of nature to your workspace, these plants do it all.
Great for Small Spaces (Apartments, Bathrooms, Offices)
Hanging plants are a smart choice for small living areas because they don’t take up valuable floor or shelf space. They can thrive in cozy apartments, steamy bathrooms, or even on office desks where natural light is scarce.
Top 10 Beginner-Friendly Low Light Hanging Plants
1. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) – Nearly Indestructible
Pothos is the ultimate low-maintenance plant. It thrives in low light, tolerates irregular watering, and grows quickly, making it perfect for beginners. Its heart-shaped leaves come in various shades, from golden to deep green.
2. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum) – Air-Purifying and Easy to Propagate
Spider plants are known for their arching leaves and tiny “spiderettes” that dangle from the mother plant. They’re excellent at filtering indoor air and can be easily propagated by planting the baby offshoots.
3. Philodendron Heartleaf (Philodendron hederaceum) – Fast-Growing and Forgiving
With its heart-shaped leaves and trailing vines, this philodendron is a favorite for hanging planters. It adapts well to low light and only needs watering when the top inch of soil is dry.
4. Peperomia (Peperomia spp.) – Compact and Drought-Tolerant
Peperomias come in many varieties, all with thick, fleshy leaves that store water. They’re small, slow-growing, and perfect for hanging baskets in dimly lit rooms.
5. String of Hearts (Ceropegia woodii) – Delicate Vines, Minimal Care Needed
This charming succulent-like plant has trailing vines with heart-shaped leaves. It prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate lower light, making it a unique and low-effort choice.
6. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) – Thrives in Neglect
The ZZ plant is practically unkillable. Its glossy, dark green leaves can survive in near-darkness and infrequent watering, making it ideal for forgetful plant owners.
7. Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus) – Adds Tropical Vibes
If you love lush, tropical foliage, this fern is a great pick. It thrives in humidity and indirect light, making it perfect for bathrooms or kitchens.
8. English Ivy (Hedera helix) – Classic Trailing Plant
English ivy’s cascading vines look stunning in hanging planters. It prefers cooler temperatures and moderate light but can adapt to lower light conditions.
9. Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans) – Elegant Fronds
This petite palm adds a touch of sophistication to any space. It grows slowly and prefers indirect light, making it a great low-light option.
10. Rex Begonia (Begonia rex-cultorum) – Colorful Foliage
While most begonias need bright light, Rex begonias can thrive in indirect light. Their striking, patterned leaves make them a standout choice for hanging displays.
Essential Care Tips for Low Light Hanging Plants
Watering: Avoid Overwatering
Most low light plants prefer slightly dry soil between waterings. Overwatering is the quickest way to kill them—always check the soil moisture before giving them a drink.
Light Needs: Bright, Indirect Light Is Best
While these plants tolerate low light, they still need some indirect sunlight to thrive. A spot near a north-facing window or a few feet away from a brighter window is ideal.
Soil & Potting: Well-Draining Mix Is Key
Use a well-draining potting mix to prevent root rot. Adding perlite or orchid bark can improve drainage, especially for plants like pothos and philodendrons.
Humidity: Mist Occasionally
Many low light plants, like ferns and ivy, appreciate higher humidity. Mist them occasionally or place them near other plants to create a humid microclimate.
Fertilizing: Light Feeding in Growing Season
During spring and summer, a diluted liquid fertilizer every 4-6 weeks will support growth. Skip fertilizing in winter when plants are dormant.
Styling Ideas for Hanging Plants in Low Light Spaces
Macramé Hangers: Boho-Chic Look
Macramé plant hangers add a cozy, bohemian vibe to living rooms or bedrooms. Pair them with pothos or spider plants for a relaxed aesthetic.
Wall-Mounted Shelves: Perfect for Trailing Vines
Install floating shelves and let trailing plants like philodendrons or string of hearts cascade down for a lush, vertical garden effect.
Bathroom Greenery: Ideal for Humidity-Loving Ferns
Bathrooms with low light are perfect for ferns or ivy, which thrive in the steamy environment. Hang them near a shower or above a sink.
Office Decor: Low-Maintenance Plants for Desks
A small ZZ plant or peperomia in a hanging planter can brighten up a dim office without requiring much care.
Tiered Planters: Create a Lush Vertical Garden
Use tiered plant stands or hanging baskets at different heights to maximize space and create a dense, jungle-like display.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Overwatering (Leading to Root Rot)
Less is more when it comes to watering low light plants. Always let the soil dry out a bit before watering again.
Placing in Complete Darkness
Even low light plants need some indirect sunlight. Avoid sticking them in a pitch-black closet or corner—they still need a little light to survive.
Ignoring Pest Checks
Spider mites, mealybugs, and scale can sneak up on indoor plants. Regularly inspect leaves and stems, especially if your plant looks unhealthy.
Using Heavy Pots That Strain Hooks
Hanging plants should be in lightweight pots to avoid putting too much strain on hooks or shelves. Opt for plastic or fiberglass planters instead of ceramic.
Conclusion
Low light hanging plants are a fantastic way to bring nature indoors, even in the darkest corners! With options like Pothos, Spider Plants, and Philodendrons, beginners can enjoy lush greenery without stress. Remember—proper watering, indirect light, and occasional pruning will keep your plants thriving. Ready to transform your space? Pick your favorite plant and start hanging! 🌿