Houseplant Light Requirement Calculator

How This Tool Works

This calculator estimates light requirements for houseplants based on species type and window direction. Different plants have varying light needs - low-light plants (like Pothos) need 4-6 hours of indirect light, while bright-light plants (like succulents) need 6+ hours of direct sunlight. The calculator uses plant-specific light requirements and correlates them with window orientation to determine if your location provides adequate light.

Window orientation significantly affects available light: south-facing windows provide the most light (best for sun-loving plants), east windows provide gentle morning light (ideal for most houseplants), west windows provide intense afternoon light (good for plants that tolerate strong light), and north windows provide the least light (suitable only for low-light plants). The calculator provides hours of light needed and intensity recommendations based on your plant type and window direction, helping you determine optimal placement or whether you need supplemental grow lights.

Window Direction Guide

• South-facing: Brightest, most consistent light - best for sun-loving plants
• West-facing: Intense afternoon light - good for plants that tolerate strong light
• East-facing: Gentle morning light - ideal for most houseplants
• North-facing: Lowest light - suitable only for low-light tolerant plants

FAQ

• How much light do houseplants need?
  Light requirements vary by plant species. Low-light plants (Pothos, Snake Plant) need 4-6 hours, medium-light plants need 6-8 hours, bright indirect light plants (Monstera) need 8-10 hours, and direct sun plants (succulents) need 6+ hours of direct sunlight.
• Which window direction is best for plants?
  South-facing windows provide the most light (best for sun-loving plants). East windows provide gentle morning light. West windows provide intense afternoon light. North windows provide the least light (best for low-light plants).
• How do I know if my plant is getting enough light?
  Signs of insufficient light include: leggy growth, small leaves, leaf drop, and slow growth. Signs of too much light include: scorched leaves, brown edges, and leaf bleaching. Adjust placement accordingly.
• Can I use artificial light for houseplants?
  Yes, grow lights can supplement or replace natural light. LED grow lights are energy-efficient and effective. Place them 6-12 inches from plants and use timers to provide consistent light cycles.
• What is the difference between direct and indirect light?
  Direct light means sunlight directly hits the plant (like a south-facing window). Indirect light means bright light but not direct sunbeams (like near a bright window but shaded). Most houseplants prefer bright indirect light.