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How to increase humidity for houseplants
Humidity is one of the most overlooked—but super important—factors when it comes to happy, healthy houseplants. Many of our leafy friends come from tropical climates and thrive in environments with 50–70% humidity. But in most homes, especially during winter, indoor humidity can drop below 30%, causing plants to dry out, droop, or get crispy edges.
Don't worry—here are some simple ways to boost humidity and keep your indoor jungle thriving 🌿
🌫️ 1. Mist Your Plants (But Not Too Much)
Light misting adds a quick burst of moisture around your plant.
Use a spray bottle filled with room-temperature water and mist the leaves early in the day. Be cautious with fuzzy-leafed plants like African Violets—they prefer to stay dry.
💧 2. Use a Humidifier
The most effective way to increase humidity for both you and your plants.
Place a small humidifier near your plant zone, especially in winter. Bonus: your skin and sinuses will thank you too!
🪴 3. Group Plants Together
Plants naturally release moisture through transpiration.
When you group them closely, they create a shared mini microclimate, boosting humidity for each other. Think of it as a little plant party!
🪟 4. Relocate to a Naturally Humid Room
Bathrooms and kitchens often have higher humidity due to steam from showers and cooking.
Place humidity-loving plants like ferns or calatheas near your bathroom window or kitchen sink (as long as they get some light!).
🌊 5. Try the Pebble Tray Method
Super simple and super effective:
Fill a shallow tray with pebbles.
Add water until it sits just below the tops of the stones.
Place your potted plant on top.
As the water evaporates, it gently humidifies the air around the plant.
☀️ 6. Avoid Dry Air From Heaters
Heaters and radiators can seriously dry out the air.
Keep plants away from direct heat sources, and consider adding a humidity-boosting barrier (like a humidifier or wet towel nearby).
🌿 7. Choose the Right Pots & Soil
Terracotta pots absorb moisture, which is great for dry-tolerant plants, but not ideal for those that love humidity.
For tropical plants, use plastic or glazed pots to retain more moisture. Also, a good moisture-retaining soil mix can help!
🌦️ 8. Bonus: Open a Window After Rain
When it rains, outdoor humidity rises. Crack open a window near your plants to let in that fresh, moist air (as long as the temperature isn’t too cold).
Final Thoughts
Humidity might not be visible, but your plants definitely feel it.
A few easy changes can make a huge difference in their growth, health, and happiness. At Breathein.shop, we’re here to help you build a thriving indoor garden—one drop of moisture at a time.
Breathe in. Grow on.
