Potted plants in the bathroom are an important decorative element and contribute to a healthy and pleasant microclimate. The challenge is to choose the right species due to the high humidity, (usually) limited natural light, and significant temperature fluctuations. Find out which plants grow best in specific bathroom conditions and discover some practical care tips.
Check out bathroom equipment at Onninen wholesale
Bathroom - a paradise for tropical plants
In most bathrooms, the temperature and humidity are higher than in other rooms in the house or apartment. In the context of plant cultivation, this specific bathroom microclimate is a huge advantage. Many popular potted plants come from tropical and subtropical corners of the world, so high temperatures and humid air are completely natural for them. They die in dry air, cold, and drafts. Therefore, bathroom humidity is an ally of tropical plants. It reduces the need for watering and minimizes the risk of drying out. However, many of these species should be placed in sunny spots, which can be a problem in bathrooms - especially in apartment buildings. For rooms with small windows or no windows, shade-loving species should be chosen or artificial lighting for the plants should be considered. 
Best plants for a bathroom with a large window
If you are a lucky owner of a well-lit bathroom, you have much greater freedom in choosing potted plants. The growth of light-loving species should be healthy and vigorous. Here are the plants that can thrive in a bathroom with a large window.
Orchids
Orchids thrive in bathrooms with larger windows. They love humid air and diffused light. They grow well on windowsills, but they cannot be permanently exposed to direct sunlight.
Ferns
Ferns love moisture and partial shade, which is why they grow beautifully in bathrooms. The humid air helps keep their delicate leaves in excellent condition, without drying brown tips. The Boston fern is particularly recommended for bathrooms with windows. It can be placed on a windowsill, shelf, or other higher furniture, or hung on the wall – its leaves should hang freely.
Climbing fig
The climbing fig is an attractive, small-leaved plant. It looks best in small pots, placed on a windowsill or furniture, or hung on a trellis that allows the fig to climb upwards. It is satisfied with bright, diffused light.
Plants for bathrooms with limited light access
Most bathrooms, especially in apartment buildings, have one small window or are completely devoid of natural light. Which species can grow in deep shade or only under artificial light?
Snake plant
The snake plant, also known as sansevieria, is a true toughie among potted plants. It belongs to the so-called low-maintenance species, ideal for beginners. It can confidently stand in a dark corner of the bathroom. It is watered every few weeks and tolerates a lack of sunlight well – the light coming from the hallway or emitted by the main lamp is sufficient. Additionally, the snake plant is a natural air purifier.
Zamioculcas zamiifolia
Zamioculcas zamiifolia is another (practically) indestructible plant. Its shiny, fleshy leaves of deep green color are impressive. It feels great in a dark bathroom, as it is not afraid of deep shade or irregular watering. The biggest threat to zamioculcas is excess water, as it leads to root rot. The problem is solved by effective drainage and permeable substrate.
Aglaonema
Aglaonema is known as the queen of indoor jungles. It features beautifully colored leaves – often with pink, red, or silver accents. The plant is resilient and easy to grow. It tolerates partial shade and even shade very well. In bathrooms without windows, varieties with darker leaves do better.
Chlorophytum
Chlorophytum is one of the most popular potted plants. It has air-purifying properties. It likes humidity and tolerates both light deficiencies and care neglect well, making it an ideal species for amateurs and for bathrooms with small windows or no windows at all.
For more inspiration, as well as for bathroom accessories that facilitate plant cultivation at home, we invite you to the Onninen online wholesale. You will find all the necessary bathroom and kitchen equipment and benefit from professional advice.
FAQ
1. Can you keep plants in a bathroom without a window?
Yes, but in that case, it is best to choose shade-loving species. You can also supplement the light for the plants using special lamps, such as LED Grow panels.
2. How often should you water plants in the bathroom?
Much less frequently than in other rooms. Before watering, you should check the moisture of the substrate.
3. Is the temperature in the bathroom harmful to plants?
The temperature in the bathroom should be between 20-23° C, according to recommendations. Most indoor plants prefer temperatures between 18-24° C. Sudden, drastic drops in temperature (e.g., during winter ventilation), standing next to a hot radiator, and constant exposure to direct sunlight are harmful to them.
4. Which air-purifying plants are suitable for the bathroom?
For example, ferns, chlorophytum, and sansevieria. They have the ability to absorb formaldehyde and other toxic substances.
5. How to protect plants in the bathroom from excessive moisture?
Plants in the bathroom must have a substrate suitable for the requirements of the species and very good drainage. It is worth using transparent pots to easily monitor the condition of the roots.