“Nobody Pots Baby in the Corner”: How to Do It Right

Placing a plant in an empty corner can transform a stark space, but this move puts the plant in a challenging situation as corners are often not conducive to healthy growth. Understanding the specific environmental conditions of a corner is the first step toward successfully keeping a plant there. With the right knowledge, you can select an appropriate plant and modify the space to help it flourish.

The Challenges of Corner Placement

The primary obstacle for a plant in a corner is the significant reduction in natural light. A plant situated in a corner may receive up to 50% less light than one placed elsewhere in the same room. The walls block light from multiple angles, and the side of the plant facing into the corner receives almost no light at all, which can lead to leaf loss.

Another significant issue is poor air circulation. Stagnant air trapped in a corner can create a microenvironment with higher humidity, which encourages the development of fungal diseases. Pests also thrive in undisturbed, still air, which allows common houseplant pests to establish themselves more easily.

Choosing the Right Plant for the Corner

Success often begins with selecting a plant that is naturally adapted to lower light conditions. The Snake Plant (Dracaena trifasciata) is an excellent candidate, known for its tolerance of a wide range of light levels. Its vertical growth habit also makes it a good fit for tight spaces. The ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) is another durable option, with rhizomes that store water, making it forgiving of infrequent watering.

Golden Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is also well-suited for corners, particularly as a hanging or climbing plant that can be trained to accentuate the space. While it thrives in bright, indirect light, it adapts well to lower light, though its variegation may become less pronounced.

Making Your Corner Plant-Friendly

Beyond plant selection, you can actively modify the corner to make it more hospitable. To address low light, consider adding a small, unobtrusive grow light. Place them directly above or angled toward the plant to supplement the natural light. Another strategy is to place a mirror on an adjacent wall to reflect more ambient light into the corner.

To combat poor air circulation, avoid pushing the plant directly against the walls, leaving a few inches of space all around the pot for air to move more freely. Periodically rotating the plant ensures that all sides receive some light and air, promoting even growth. For rooms with very still air, a small, quiet fan placed across the room can improve overall circulation.