As the saying goes… Some like it hot! Or do they? Even though many of the plants we grow indoors are tropical by nature, they don't all like it hot. When it comes to growing plants indoors, it is important to find out what temperature range is best for the specific plants you are growing. Matching plants to temperatures can go a long way toward insuring success. Fortunately, most indoor plants are willing to adapt to the average indoor temperature range, but some will prefer it warmer or cooler. But if you want to get the most out of your plants… if you want them to thrive, not just survive… try to match the plants' general requirements for temperatures, humidity, light and water as closely as possible.  Whenever possible, find out what conditions your specific plants would prefer. In general, warmer temperatures are best for succulents, ferns, jungle cacti and palms. Cooler temperatures are best for bulbs, blooming plants and desert cacti. Most other indoor plants are relatively tolerant of temperature range. Generally, cool-loving plants will fare better in warm conditions than a warm-loving plant will do in cool temperatures. These guidelines are not hard and fast, so it is still important to check what would be ideal for your plants. For plants that aren't specifically listed in this information sheet, just ask and we'd be glad to find out for you.

How do you know what is considered cool or warm? In the indoor plant world, cool means the 50-60º range.  Average indoor temps in the 60-80º range are considered warm.

Any tips for evaluating a given space? It just takes a few minutes to evaluate the area where you would like plants. First, realize that heat and cool can come from various sources. In addition to the general temperature of a room, watch for specific sources such as heat vents, radiators, cold-air returns, windows, doors, fireplaces and ovens.

How much variation will a plant stand? Most plants are fairly tolerant of temperatures ranging 10º higher or lower than their ideal range. When the temperatures fall outside that range, it can damage the plant. Plants that are not already stressed (by factors such as lower than preferred light or humidity, etc.) are more tolerant of temperatures that are too cool or too warm.

Is there anything I can do to help a plant tolerate excess heat or cold? Many plants will tolerate a higher temperature when the humidity is higher. And, of course, keeping your plants strong and healthy will make them more adaptable.

Do the variations of temperatures from night to day affect plants? The average indoor space only varies 10-15º in temperature from night to day and this is well within ideal range for healthy indoor plants. On the whole, cacti can take a greater night/day variation than most other plants.

Do temperature requirements vary according to the season? Most indoor plants can tolerate lower average temperatures in the winter. During the winter season when we have much shorter days, most plants are going through a rest period. New growth tends to need warmer temperatures. A few plants even require a cooler winter and that can be difficult since most homes are heated evenly for the season.

How sensitive are plants to sudden temperature changes? Sudden changes are much harder on plants than gradual changes. A plant that can take a gradual 15º drop in temps during the night might be damaged if the temperature dropped suddenly 15º in the middle of the afternoon when a door is held open for a few minutes.

When moving plants during the winter, it is essential that they be properly wrapped and protected. Sudden exposure to low temperatures often causes leaf drop and drooping.

Are the temperatures needed to propagate plants different from growing temperatures? Most cuttings and seeds need consistently very warm temperatures (80-85º) for the best results. Make sure this warmth is maintained during the night too. Higher humidity is needed when propagating plants at warmer temperatures.

What tells me that a plant is kept too cool? When plants are kept too cool they often grow slowly with smaller-than-normal leaves. Some plants react to cold temperatures by developing dark, almost black leaves that curl. Others will fail to bloom as they should or the leaves will look limp.

What tells me a plant is too warm? Plants that are kept too warm tend to grow too quickly and develop weak growth. Excessive heat can also interfere with blooming, resulting in fewer blooms or weak blooms that don't last very long. It can also result in wilting even though the plant is adequately watered. These symptoms can also be the result of too little light.

Specific Plants for Cool and Warm Indoor Spaces

Recommended Products
Quality Tropical Plants in Various Sizes
Bachman's Exceloam Potting Soil
Containers and Saucers, Pruning Tools
Safe and Effective Insecticides
Artificial Lights for Indoor Gardening 
Excel Gro™ Water Soluble Fertilizer

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