4 shade-tolerant, tough and easy-to-grow plants that thrive even with poor lighting

Recently, a gardening friend asked which flowers and plants are suitable to grow if the lighting conditions at home are poor. Today we will share some with everyone.

Before answering this question, there is one precondition: all things need sunlight to grow, and plants are the same. Only with light can they carry out photosynthesis and produce the nutrients needed for their own growth. In answering this question, we are only picking out some relatively shade-tolerant plants from among all plants.

First, let us understand the impact of the environmental factor of light on flower and plant growth. It is mainly reflected in three aspects: the first is light intensity, the second is light duration, and the third is light wavelength. We classify flowers and plants as light-loving, shade-loving, and shade-tolerant, mainly based on the different degrees to which different flowers and plants depend on light intensity.

As for the most suitable light intensity for each plant, that is, judging whether it is light-loving or shade-loving, we still need to look at the climate characteristics of its place of origin. Take pothos for example: pothos grows under the shade of trees in tropical rainforests, with tall trees and shrubs above providing cover, making it especially suitable for growing in this kind of semi-shaded environment with scattered light.

There is also the monstera we know, which also grows in such an environment. In addition, there are plants like the dragon tree and asparagus fern, which are relatively shade-tolerant. If the lighting is poor, these plants are also a good choice. There are also the money tree and snake plant that many flower lovers favor. Although these two plants can also grow under scattered light, in terms of growth state, such as leaf color and growth speed, they are clearly not as good as when cared for under conditions of sufficient light.

Finally, let us mention one point that requires special attention when growing plants in a semi-shaded environment: controlling the amount of watering well. Because the light conditions themselves are insufficient, if you water excessively, it is very easy to cause leggy growth, so keeping the potting soil slightly moist is best.