Indoor house plants are usually grown in greenhouses and under conditions similar to what we have in our homes and offices. But since most house plants are tropical or sub-tropical, they enjoy warmer and more humid environments. These conditions are fairly easy to achieve if you are cognizant of your indoor temperature and humidity and where you place your plant.



Temperature

Most house plants will easily tolerate some temperature fluctuations although an excess of low or high temperatures can stunt growth, damage foliage and cause general weakness and kill the plant. Foliage only plants generally require temperatures between 70F and 80F during the day and about 10 degrees cooler for nighttime. Flowering plants prefer an even cooler nighttime temperature; just do not let temperature drop below 55F. A lower night temperature helps the plant recover from moisture loss, intensifies flower and leaf color, and prolongs life. Indoor plants, especially flowering varieties, are very sensitive to drafts so do not place them close to heating sources or drafty windows in the cold weather.If you have your plant near a window use the following guideline to ensure appropriate temperature as sunlight intensity, which also provides heat, can be key to its health. Southern facing windows get the most intense light and northern facing get the least (about a quarter of southern facing). Both east and west facing windows get about half as much as southern facing windows. You should also consider the decor you have in the room. Shiny, reflective surfaces will intensify the light and heat while dull and dark surfaces will do the opposite.

Every so often, if possible, during temperate & humid weather, move your plant out to the patio or balcony for some fresh air and sunlight. Do not let you house plant get direct sunlight when outside.

Humidity

Atmospheric humidity,which is the percentage of moisture saturation in the air, is important to your house plant. You may notice withering leaves and spider mite if your plant remains in very hot and dry conditions for an extended period of time.

There are some ways to increase the humidity and make your plants happy. The easiest way is to place plants in a room with a humidifier. If you have forced hot air heat, this is essential. Another way is to place your pot or container in a gravel tray filled with water. Make sure water is at room temperature and constantly refilled. As this water evaporates it will create a humid environment in the vicinity of the pot. Some people suggest misting your plant to increase humidity. Although this has not been proven to help, I guess it can not hurt. Just be sure to do this early in the day as you do not want your plant to be damp in the lower nighttime temperature as this can promote disease. If you have several plants in one room, group them closer together and they will all benefit. The best way I have found is to take my plants into the bathroom during my shower or bath. They love the heat, humidity and steam.