Plants For The Window Sill

There are many ways to spruce up a window sill, but only a few ways to add life to them.

Plants instantly give life to a window and the entire interior! But the type of plant and the type of window sill you choose are more important than you think!

Not all houseplants are suitable for the window sill and some window sills are prone to moisture and mould, read on to find out which plants thrive near your windows and why!

Moisture Resistant Window Sills

Succulents (e.g., jade plant, echeveria, sedum)

Succulents are the perfect window sill plants for those with a not-so-green thumb. With their thick, fleshy leaves and arid climate origins, they can handle periods of neglect and still look fantastic. From the classic jade plant to the beautifully patterned echeverias, succulents add a sculptural, low-maintenance touch to any sunny sill.

• Climate: Arid, warm
• Window Sill Suitability: 9/10
• Light Needs: Full sun to partial shade (4-6 hours of direct sunlight)
• Water Needs: Drought-tolerant, water sparingly when soil is completely dry
• Soil: Well-draining cactus/succulent mix
• Maintenance: Low, prune occasionally
• Growth Rate: Slow
• Air Purification: Low
  

Snake Plant (Sansevieria)

The snake plant is practically indestructible, making it an excellent choice for busy plant parents or those new to indoor gardening. Its stiff, upright leaves thrive in a variety of light conditions, from bright sun to shaded corners. Plus, this plant is a superstar at purifying indoor air, so it's both beautiful and beneficial.

• Climate: Tropical, subtropical
• Window Sill Suitability: 8/10
• Light Needs: Bright, indirect light to low light
• Water Needs: Drought-tolerant, water every 2-3 weeks
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix
• Maintenance: Low, wipe leaves occasionally
• Growth Rate: Slow
• Air Purification: High

Pothos

With its trailing vines and heart-shaped leaves, the pothos brings a lovely, lush look to any window sill. This easy-going plant is incredibly forgiving if you accidentally miss a watering or two. Plus, it's one of the best at filtering indoor air, so it's as practical as it is pretty.

• Climate: Tropical, subtropical
• Window Sill Suitability: 7/10
• Light Needs: Bright, indirect light
• Water Needs: Allow soil to partially dry between waterings
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix
• Maintenance: Medium, prune regularly
• Growth Rate: Fast
• Air Purification: High

Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

The spider plant's arching leaves and delicate plantlets (or "spiders") add a graceful touch to window sills. But this plant is more than just a pretty face – it's also a powerhouse at cleaning indoor air. With its easy-going nature and tolerance for various light conditions, the spider plant is a statement piece for your window sill.

• Climate: Tropical, subtropical
• Window Sill Suitability: 8/10
• Light Needs: Bright, indirect light to partial shade
• Water Needs: Allow soil to partially dry between waterings
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix
• Maintenance: Medium, remove brown leaves
• Growth Rate: Fast
• Air Purification: High

Aloe Vera

The aloe vera is much more than a houseplant – it's a regenerative powerhouse with incredible medicinal properties. Place one of these spiky succulents on a sunny window sill, and you'll always have fresh aloe gel on hand to soothe cuts, burns, and dry skin.

• Climate: Arid, warm
• Window Sill Suitability: 9/10
• Light Needs: Bright, indirect sunlight
• Water Needs: Allow soil to fully dry between waterings
• Soil: Well-draining cactus/succulent mix
• Maintenance: Low
• Growth Rate: Slow
• Air Purification: High

ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

If you're looking for an indestructible, low-maintenance plant, look no further than the ZZ plant. With its glossy, oval leaves and ability to thrive in everything from low to bright light, it's virtually foolproof. In terms of air purifying, it excels at removing toxins like xylene and toluene from your home.

• Climate: Tropical, subtropical
• Window Sill Suitability: 7/10
• Light Needs: Low to bright, indirect light
• Water Needs: Drought-tolerant, water every 2-3 weeks
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix
• Maintenance: Very low
• Growth Rate: Slow
• Air Purification: High

Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema)

With its eye-catching patterned leaves, the Chinese evergreen adds a touch of artistry to any window sill. From bright indirect light to shady corners, this adaptable plant can thrive in a variety of conditions. 

• Climate: Tropical, subtropical
• Window Sill Suitability: 8/10
• Light Needs: Bright, indirect light to low light
• Water Needs: Allow soil to partially dry between waterings
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix
• Maintenance: Low, wipe leaves occasionally
• Growth Rate: Moderate
• Air Purification: High

Peperomia

With their small stature, trailing habits, and unique leaf patterns, peperomias are like living works of art for your window sill. These low-maintenance beauties come in a range of shapes and colors, from the rippled green and red foliage of the watermelon peperomia to the metallic shimmer of the peperomia rosso.

• Climate: Tropical, subtropical
• Window Sill Suitability: 8/10
• Light Needs: Bright, indirect light to low light
• Water Needs: Allow soil to partially dry between waterings
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix
• Maintenance: Low
• Growth Rate: Slow to moderate
• Air Purification: Moderate

Air Plants (Tillandsia)

For the ultimate in low-maintenance window sill greenery, air plants are the way to go. These unique plants require no soil, absorbing moisture and nutrients through their leaves. Display them on a piece of driftwood or in a glass orb for an eye-catching, living accent that will thrive with just an occasional soak.

• Climate: Tropical, subtropical
• Window Sill Suitability: 9/10
• Light Needs: Bright, indirect light
• Water Needs: Soak in water every 1-2 weeks
• Soil: None, grow on bark, driftwood, etc.
• Maintenance: Very low
• Growth Rate: Slow
• Air Purification: Low

Herbs (e.g., basil, mint, thyme, rosemary)

A sunny kitchen window sill is the perfect spot for an indoor herb garden. Lush basil, fragrant rosemary, and more will thrive with direct sunlight and add beautiful lush greenery. Plus, you'll have fresh herbs always on hand for cooking and creating amazing aromas throughout your home.

• Climate: Varies, generally warm
• Window Sill Suitability: 9/10
• Light Needs: Full sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight)
• Water Needs: Keep soil moist, not saturated
• Soil: Well-draining potting mix
• Maintenance: Medium, regular pruning/harvesting
• Growth Rate: Fast (annuals)
• Air Purification: Moderate

Does The Material Of My Window Sill Matter?

When it comes to selecting the ideal window sill material for hosting plants, high-density moisture-resistant MDF (Medium-Density Fiberboard) stands out as the best choice. Unlike traditional wood or porous materials, MDF is engineered to be highly resistant to moisture, swelling, and warping, ensuring a stable and long-lasting surface for your indoor garden.

Natural Materials

While natural materials like wood or marble may have an aesthetic appeal, they can be susceptible to water damage, rotting, or staining over time, especially when exposed to the elevated moisture levels associated with potted plants. Wood, in particular, can also harbor insect infestations, posing a risk to your plants and indoor environment.

PVC Window Sills

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) window sills are another moisture-resistant option, but they may not offer the same warmth and natural look as MDF, and they can potentially crack or discolor over time due to exposure to sunlight and temperature fluctuations.

High-Density MDF: The Ideal Choice

High-density MDF, on the other hand, combines the best of both worlds – it's moisture-resistant, durable, and easy to maintain, while still providing a sleek and modern appearance that complements various interior design styles. Its smooth surface is easy to clean and won't harbor mould or bacteria, making it a hygienic choice for your indoor plants.

With proper drainage and care, MDF window sills can provide a stable and long-lasting foundation for your window sill plants, minimising the risk of water damage, insect infestations, or structural issues. Additionally, their affordability and ease of installation make them an excellent choice for homeowners and renters alike.

Best Practices

Of course, no matter the window sill material, it's essential to follow best practices for indoor plant care, such as using containers with drainage holes, monitoring watering schedules, and addressing any pest issues promptly. By combining the right window sill material with proper plant maintenance, you can create a beautiful and thriving indoor oasis that enhances your living space and brings the joy of nature indoors.

Frequently Asked Questions