Myth or Fact? Indoor Plants Can Live in the Dark? This is the Answer from IPB University Expert
Lately, more and more people are fond of keeping plants that can be placed in the house (indoor). Apart from functioning as a decorative element that beautifies the room, indoor plants are also known to be able to filter the air naturally. However, the question arises: is it true that indoor plants can live in the dark, without light?
Dr Krisantini, lecturer at the Department of Agronomy and Horticulture, Faculty of Agriculture, IPB University, explains that indoor plants still need light, albeit in limited amounts.
“If placed in total darkness, indoor plants cannot grow well. Although these plants need shade, they still need sunlight for the photosynthesis process,” she said.
She explained that indoor plants basically come from natural habitats under the shade of large trees in the forest. Therefore, they have adapted to grow in environments with limited light. However, that does not mean they can survive without light at all.
For indoor plant lovers, Dr Krisantini provides some care tips for these plants:
Do not fertilize too often: This is because in limited light conditions (indoors), there is less need for food.
Rotate the position of the plant: Move the plant pot periodically so that its growth is balanced.
Avoid exposure to kitchen smoke and air conditioning: Kitchen fumes and cold air from air conditioners can be detrimental to plant health.
Types of indoor plants include species of the Araceae family, Philodendron, Aglaonema, Monstera, and Epipremnum. Some plants with a fairly tall habitus include waregu palm, yellow palm, and various kinds of suji/Dracaena.
Dr Krisantini shared interesting facts about indoor plants, including anthurium and spathiphyllum. Both species can flower in shaded conditions. Also various types of orchids. “Usually these plants are cultivated outside with shade/paranet, when they flower they can be brought indoors,” she said.
“Some species are thought to be able to absorb air pollutants, including indoors. Such as Sansevieria and green plants perform photosynthesis whose product is oxygen. Placing indoor plants in office spaces has been shown to increase relative humidity. This is especially beneficial in dry areas,” she added. (dh) (IAAS/LAN)
