As the days get shorter and a crispness fills the air, we naturally start to turn our attention to making our homes feel warm and inviting for the fall season. While pumpkins, cozy blankets, and spiced candles are a must, there’s another way to bring life and beauty into your space: houseplants!
Fall is a fantastic time to refresh your indoor plant collection. The cooler temperatures and lower light levels outside mean that many plants are entering a period of slower growth, making it a great time to introduce new additions without the stress of intense summer heat. Plus, surrounding yourself with greenery can help combat the "indoor blues" that can sometimes accompany the changing seasons.
Here are some of the best houseplants to bring a touch of autumn magic into your home.
Low-Maintenance Plants for Any Space
1. Snake Plant (Sansevieria trifasciata) The ultimate low-maintenance champion, the snake plant is a must-have for any season. Its striking, architectural leaves in shades of deep green and yellow-gold make it a perfect fit for a fall aesthetic. It's incredibly forgiving and can tolerate a wide range of light conditions, from low to bright indirect light. It also helps purify the air, a bonus as we seal up our homes for the colder months.
2. ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) Another superstar for the busy plant parent, the ZZ plant is practically indestructible. Its waxy, deep green leaves are perfect for adding a lush, full look to any room. It's renowned for its ability to thrive in very low light and its remarkable drought tolerance. If you're a "forgetful waterer," the ZZ plant will be your best friend this fall.
3. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) With its cascading vines and heart-shaped leaves, a pothos can add a touch of whimsy and movement to your decor. Varieties like the 'Marble Queen' with its creamy white variegation or the classic 'Golden Pothos' with its yellow splashes can perfectly complement the warm tones of autumn. Pothos are easy to care for and can be grown in hanging baskets or on a high shelf, allowing their beautiful foliage to trail down.
Plants for a Classic Look
4. English Ivy (Hedera helix) For a classic, sophisticated look, you can't go wrong with English Ivy. Its elegant, lobed leaves and trailing habit create a timeless feel. It's a great choice for adding texture to a bookshelf or mantelpiece. English Ivy prefers cooler temperatures and consistent moisture, making it perfectly suited for the fall and winter seasons.
5. Peace Lily (Spathiphyllum) Looking for a plant that adds a touch of grace and purity? The peace lily is your answer. Its glossy, dark green leaves and elegant white flower-like spathes (which are actually modified leaves) are a beautiful contrast. Peace lilies are known for their air-purifying qualities and will even tell you when they're thirsty by drooping their leaves, making them very easy to read.
How Can You Create A Successful Fall Transition?
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Mind the light: As the sun's angle changes and days shorten, you may need to move your plants to a brighter location. Observe how the light changes in your home throughout the day.
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Embrace grow lights: As natural light becomes a scarcity, especially on cloudy days, consider supplementing with a Soltech grow light. LED grow lights are energy-efficient and come in many styles, from simple bulbs you can screw into a lamp to more decorative fixtures that blend seamlessly with your decor. They can provide the full-spectrum light your plants need to stay healthy and vibrant, ensuring they continue to thrive through the darker months.
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Adjust your watering schedule: Plants naturally need less water in the fall and winter as they enter a period of rest. Always check the soil moisture before watering. It's better to underwater than to overwater. Check out this article from the University of Connecticut for further information on watering house plants.
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Avoid repotting: It's generally best to wait until spring to repot your plants. Their growth has slowed, and repotting can cause unnecessary stress.
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Clean those leaves: Dust can build up on leaves, blocking light absorption. Gently wipe down the leaves with a damp cloth to keep them happy and healthy.
Your Green Sanctuary Awaits
Bringing a few new houseplants into your home this fall is more than just a decorating choice—it's an investment in your well-being. A home filled with greenery becomes a living, breathing sanctuary that feels calm, vibrant, and alive, even as the world outside goes dormant. Whether you're a seasoned plant enthusiast or just starting your journey, these resilient and beautiful plants are the perfect way to infuse your space with the restorative power of nature. So go ahead, find a new green friend, and let your indoor garden flourish this season. It's time to cozy up and fall in love with your home all over again.
