Do all plants need the same humidity levels?
Written by
Nguyen Minh
Reviewed by
Prof. Charles Hartman, Ph.D.Brown edges on leaves typically signal that the humidity I have in my environment is off. For example, tropical plants, like monsteras, prefer humidity of 60-80%, while succulents prefer arid 30-40% conditions. My calathea recently showed brown edges at 45% humidity, and when I increased it to 65% with a humidifier, it produced beautiful new leaves within a few weeks!
Tropical Plants
- Native to rainforests: 70-80% humidity ideal
- Use pebble trays filled with filtered water
- Group with ferns to create moisture-sharing clusters
Desert Species
- Cacti/succulents prefer 30-40% humidity
- Avoid misting, promotes rot in dry-adapted plants
- Ensure airflow to mimic natural arid breezes
Temperate Houseplants
- Snake plants/pothos tolerate 40-50% humidity
- Wipe leaves monthly to maximize moisture absorption
- Place away from AC vents causing sudden drops
Use a hygrometer to end the guesswork. I purchased a simple digital hygrometer for $12, which I placed near my fiddle leaf fig. I noticed around noon, the humidity plummeted to 35% once the heat was activated. I moved the hygrometer into a bathroom with no direct sunlight, and the humidity levels stabilized at 55%, which stopped the new brown edges from developing.
Digital Hygrometers
- Accuracy range: ±5% for models under $20
- Place at plant canopy height for readings
- Avoid direct sunlight/water splashes on sensors
Humidity Trays
- Use 2-inch deep trays with lava rocks
- Refill water below rock level weekly
- Add mosquito bits to prevent larvae
Grouping Strategy
- Cluster 5+ plants to boost humidity 15-20%
- Include water-loving species as 'humidifiers'
- Rotate plants monthly for even light exposure
Read the full article: Understanding and Fixing Brown Leaf Edges on Plants
