The sides of the world and the plants that can appear on our windowsills
Plants have a huge impact on our well-being. They purify the air, negatively ionize it, and their presence has a calming effect. They also have aesthetic value and are an interior decoration that brings us closer to nature. No wonder that fans of urban jungle style arrangements are still growing. Since we cannot always go to the bosom of nature - why not invite nature to us?
Creating a cozy and healthy climate at home with the use of potted plants is available to everyone. It does not require extraordinary financial investments. However, if we want the home flora to be good at our place and that it gives back a beautiful appearance, it is worth getting to know its individual needs.
Of course, windowsills are a favorite place to put potted flowers. They often constitute (depending on the number and size of windows in the apartment) a “free” space to be used, but also the best illuminate place. Plants like and need light – although the demand varies. The sides of the world towards which the flat is situated are important. It depends on the exposure of the windows in the house how much light will enter the room, how intense it will be and how long it will be available during the day. Consequently, it is not insignificant on which windowsill the new plant will appear.
Eastern exposure
Windowsills with eastern exposure is a place where full sun is only for a few hours – in the first part of the day. However, contrary to appearances, diffused light is the most beneficial for many indoor plants. Therefore, windows facing east will be perfect for many plants. So, if the plant does not require long-term irradiation to grow properly – put it on the eastern windowsill. For the eastern windowsill, we recommend anthurium, dracaena, hoya.
Western exposure
The same is with windowsills on the west side. The sun only comes in some part of the day, but – and there is a fundamental difference – it gives more heat. Plants that like discreet rays or partial shade will feel good next to a window facing west. Let’s be careful with delicate varieties, because in spring and summer, although there is not much sunlight during the day, they are sometimes strong and can damage the leaves. For the western windowsill, we recommend flowers as: Alpine and African violets, orchids, begonias.
Northern exposure
The northern exposure is by far the most difficult when it comes to growing plants. Soft, diffused light will only be suitable for plants that tolerate shaded places. Varieties with dark green leaves are a better choice than those with colored leaves. Unfortunately, flowering plants will not settle on the northern windowsill. For the northern windowsill, we recommend monstera, ivy and fern.
Southern exposure
Southern windowsills guarantee the most light. Unfortunately, strong sun creates a desert microclimate on the windowsill, in which few plants feel comfortable. For this reason, the southern exposure is demanding, both for plants and their owners. The difficulty in maintaining a green windowsill is almost as huge as in case of the north side. In both variants, we are dealing with extreme conditions. For the southern windowsill, we recommend succulents – cactus, agaves, aloe, also spurge and kalanchoe varieties.
If we want our plants to flourish and not wilt in eyes, we shouldn’t risk placing them on a “random” windowsill. Let’s match the right flowers to the sides of the world. And if our apartment has exposure in one direction, let’s only target specific specimens.