Expert: Will Creed - 5/19/2004

Question
I have the opposite of a green thumb, which is why I've been resorting to using fake plants.  Can you please tell me which plants to use in my dining room/living room that gets very little light?  We don't use that room often either, so it doesn't even get much artificial light.   I've noticed that most low-light plants are spiky looking, such as the spider plant or mother-in-law's-tongue plant (I hope I said that right).  But I was wondering if there are any really full, lush-looking plants I could use.   Thanks so much.  Laura

Answer
Hi Laura,

Inadequate light can turn even the greenest thumb black!

All plants need some light to survive. The lowest light plants must have the equivalent of very bright natural reading light all day long in order to survive. If you don't have that much light, then artificial plants are your only option.

The best low-light plants are Dracaena 'Janet Craig,' Chinese evergreen, and Pothos. They are all more lush-looking than a spider plant or a snake plant. However, if they don't get as much light as I described above, then even they will not survive.

Please let me know if any of this is unclear or if you have any additional questions.

Regards,
Will Creed, Interior Landscaper
Horticultural Help, NYC

You can E-mail me directly at: wcreed@HorticulturalHelp.com

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