10 Best Hanging Plants for Indoor Spaces

Hanging plants are an excellent way to add greenery to your home without taking up floor space. They can be used to create a natural focal point, bring life to dull corners, or add a lush feel to any room. Not only do they enhance the aesthetic appeal of your space, but they also improve air quality and have been known to reduce stress.

Here, we will delve into the ten best hanging plants for indoor spaces, providing detailed care instructions and exploring their unique characteristics and benefits.

1. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)

Spider plants are one of the most popular and easy-to-care-for hanging plants. They are known for their long, arching leaves that give the appearance of spider legs, hence the name. Spider plants produce small white flowers and plantlets, which can be propagated to grow new plants.

Care Tips:

Light: Spider plants thrive in bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Water: Water the plant thoroughly but allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Humidity: Spider plants prefer moderate humidity levels. They can adapt to lower humidity but will benefit from occasional misting.
Temperature: Ideal temperature range is between 55°F and 80°F (13°C to 27°C). Keep the plant away from cold drafts and heating vents.
Soil: Use well-draining potting soil. A mixture of peat, pine bark, and perlite works well.
Propagation: Spider plants are easy to propagate. Simply plant the small plantlets in soil, and they will root quickly.

2. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

Boston ferns are lush, elegant plants with feathery fronds that can add a tropical feel to any indoor space. They are particularly well-suited for hanging baskets and thrive in humid environments.

Care Tips:

Light: Boston ferns prefer bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight can burn the fronds, while low light can cause the plant to become leggy.
Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the surface of the soil feels dry to the touch.
Humidity: High humidity is crucial for Boston ferns. Use a humidifier or mist the plant regularly to maintain moisture levels.
Temperature: These ferns do best in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F (16°C to 24°C). Avoid placing them in drafty areas.
Soil: A rich, well-draining potting mix with peat moss or coco coir is ideal.
Pruning: Trim any dead or yellowing fronds to keep the plant looking healthy and encourage new growth.

3. English Ivy (Hedera helix)

English ivy is a versatile plant that can be grown in hanging baskets or trained to climb trellises and walls. It is known for its lush, trailing vines and ability to improve indoor air quality by filtering out toxins.

Care Tips:

Light: English ivy prefers bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the leaves.
Water: Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Humidity: English ivy thrives in moderate to high humidity. Mist the plant regularly to maintain humidity levels.
Temperature: Ideal temperature range is between 50°F and 70°F (10°C to 21°C). Keep the plant away from drafts and heating vents.
Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix. A mixture of peat, pine bark, and perlite works well.
Pruning: Regularly trim back any overgrown or leggy vines to maintain the plant’s shape and encourage bushier growth.

4. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)

Pothos is a popular choice for hanging baskets due to its hardiness and attractive, heart-shaped leaves. It is known for its ability to thrive in various light conditions and is also an excellent air purifier.

Care Tips:

Light: Pothos can tolerate low light but thrives in bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight, which can bleach the leaves.
Water: Water when the top inch of soil is dry. Pothos is drought-tolerant and can survive occasional neglect.
Humidity: Average room humidity is sufficient, but the plant will benefit from occasional misting.
Temperature: Ideal temperature range is between 60°F and 80°F (16°C to 27°C). Keep the plant away from cold drafts.
Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix. Pothos is not particular about soil quality but prefers a mixture of peat moss and perlite.
Propagation: Pothos is easy to propagate. Simply take stem cuttings with a few leaves and place them in water or soil to root.

5. String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)

String of Pearls is a unique succulent with bead-like leaves that trail elegantly from hanging baskets. It’s a low-maintenance plant that adds a touch of whimsy to any indoor space.

Care Tips:

Light: String of Pearls thrives in bright, indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight but avoid intense afternoon sun.
Water: Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings. Overwatering can cause the pearls to rot.
Humidity: Prefers dry conditions. Avoid high humidity, which can lead to fungal issues.
Temperature: Ideal temperature range is between 70°F and 80°F (21°C to 27°C). Protect the plant from frost and extreme heat.
Soil: Use a well-draining cactus or succulent mix. Ensure the pot has drainage holes to prevent waterlogging.
Propagation: String of Pearls can be propagated from cuttings. Simply place a cutting on top of moist soil and it will root quickly.

6. Maidenhair Fern (Adiantum)

Maidenhair ferns are delicate plants with light green, fan-shaped leaves. They add a touch of elegance to any indoor space but require a bit more care than some other hanging plants.

Care Tips:

Light: Indirect light or partial shade is ideal. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch the delicate fronds.
Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Never let the soil dry out completely.
Humidity: High humidity is essential for Maidenhair ferns. Use a humidifier or mist the plant regularly.
Temperature: Ideal temperature range is between 60°F and 75°F (16°C to 24°C). Avoid placing the plant in drafty areas.
Soil: Use a well-draining, rich potting mix with peat moss or coco coir.
Pruning: Trim any dead or yellowing fronds to keep the plant looking healthy and encourage new growth.

7. Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)

Philodendrons are versatile and easy to care for, with heart-shaped leaves that can trail beautifully from hanging baskets. They’re also excellent air purifiers, removing pollutants from the air.

Care Tips:

Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal, but philodendrons can tolerate low light conditions.
Water: Allow the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot.
Humidity: Average room humidity is sufficient, but the plant will benefit from occasional misting.
Temperature: Ideal temperature range is between 65°F and 80°F (18°C to 27°C). Keep the plant away from cold drafts.
Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix. A mixture of peat, pine bark, and perlite works well.
Propagation: Philodendrons are easy to propagate. Simply take stem cuttings with a few leaves and place them in water or soil to root.

8. Bird’s Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus)

Bird’s Nest Fern is known for its unique rosette of wavy, green fronds. It’s a striking addition to any indoor space and thrives in low light and high humidity conditions.

Care Tips:

Light: Indirect light or low light is best. Avoid direct sunlight, which can burn the fronds.
Water: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Humidity: High humidity is crucial for Bird’s Nest Ferns. Use a humidifier or mist the plant regularly.
Temperature: Ideal temperature range is between 60°F and 75°F (16°C to 24°C). Avoid placing the plant in drafty areas.
Soil: Use a well-draining, rich potting mix with peat moss or coco coir.
Pruning: Trim any dead or yellowing fronds to keep the plant looking healthy and encourage new growth.

9. String of Hearts (Ceropegia woodii)

String of Hearts is a delicate and charming plant with heart-shaped leaves that trail down in long, elegant strands. It’s perfect for adding a touch of romance to your indoor space.

Care Tips:

Light: Bright, indirect light is ideal. Avoid direct sunlight, which can bleach the leaves.
Water: Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. Overwatering can cause root rot.
Humidity: Prefers higher humidity but can adapt to average conditions. Mist the plant occasionally.
Temperature: Ideal temperature range is between 60°F and 80°F (16°C to 27°C). Protect the plant from frost and extreme heat.
Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix. A mixture of peat moss and perlite works well.
Propagation: String of Hearts can be propagated from cuttings. Simply take a cutting with a few leaves and place it in water or soil to root.

10. Swedish Ivy (Plectranthus verticillatus)

Swedish Ivy is a fast-growing, trailing plant with round, glossy leaves. It’s easy to care for and can thrive in a variety of indoor environments.

Care Tips:

Light: Bright, indirect light is best, but Swedish Ivy can tolerate low light conditions.
Water: Keep the soil consistently moist. Water the plant when the top inch of soil feels dry.
Humidity: Average room humidity is sufficient, but the plant will benefit from occasional misting.
Temperature: Ideal temperature range is between 60°F and 75°F (16°C to 24°C). Keep the plant away from cold drafts.
Soil: Use a well-draining potting mix. A mixture of peat, pine bark, and perlite works well.
Pruning: Regularly trim back any overgrown or leggy vines to maintain the plant’s shape and encourage bushier growth.

Conclusion

Incorporating hanging plants into your indoor spaces can transform your home into a green oasis. Not only do they enhance the aesthetic appeal, but they also offer various health benefits, such as improving air quality and reducing stress. Whether you’re a seasoned plant enthusiast or a beginner, there’s a hanging plant that can thrive in your indoor environment.

By selecting the right plants and providing them with proper care, you can enjoy the beauty and tranquility of nature all year round.

Additional Tips for Hanging Plant Care

Choosing the Right Pot: Use pots with drainage holes to prevent waterlogging. Hanging baskets with coconut coir liners are also a good option for improved drainage and aeration.

Watering: Ensure you’re not overwatering your hanging plants. Check the soil moisture level before watering and allow excess water to drain out completely.

Fertilizing: Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer during the growing season to promote healthy growth. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for the correct dilution and frequency.

Pest Control: Regularly inspect your plants for pests such as spider mites, aphids, and mealybugs. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat infestations.

Pruning: Regularly trim dead or yellowing leaves and overgrown vines to maintain the plant’s shape and health. Pruning encourages new growth and prevents the plant from becoming leggy.

Acclimating New Plants: When introducing new plants to your home, gradually acclimate them to their new environment. Start by placing them in a location with similar light and temperature conditions to where they were previously grown.

Final Thoughts

Hanging plants are a wonderful addition to any indoor space, providing both aesthetic and health benefits.

By choosing the right plants for your environment and following proper care guidelines, you can create a beautiful and thriving indoor garden. Enjoy the process of nurturing your hanging plants and watch as they transform your home into a lush, green sanctuary.