In the world of indoor gardening, light is everything.
Houseplants rely on light not just to grow, but to survive—and understanding what kind of light your space offers is the key to helping your plants thrive.
In this guide, we’ll break down what bright indirect light actually means, explore the different conditions each window orientation provides, and offer practical tips to help you optimise lighting for every plant in your collection.
What Is Bright Indirect Light?
You’ve probably seen the phrase “bright indirect light” on a plant care label—but what does that really mean?
Bright indirect light is sunlight that has been filtered before reaching the plant. This could mean placing your plant behind a sheer curtain, setting it a few feet away from a sunny window, or using natural obstructions (like other furniture or greenery) to soften the rays. It’s bright enough to fuel growth, but not so harsh that it scorches leaves.
Many popular houseplants—like Monstera and Maranta—absolutely thrive in this kind of light.
Light Levels by Window Direction
North-Facing Windows (no direct sun):
These offer the softest, most consistent light throughout the day. Great for low-light plants like Calathea, Peace Lilies, Pothos, and ZZ plants.
South-Facing Windows (strong midday sun):
South-facing windows provide the most intense light, especially midday. Perfect for sun-loving plants like succulents, cacti, and flowering houseplants.
Tip: Filter the light in summer to avoid leaf burn on tropicals.
East-Facing Windows (gentle morning light):
East-facing spots receive soft, bright sunlight in the morning, then gentle indirect light for the rest of the day. Ideal for most houseplants—especially ferns, orchids, and Philodendrons.
West-Facing Windows (afternoon sun):
Afternoon sun can be intense, so it suits hardy plants that don’t mind the heat—like succulents, herbs, and some trailing plants. For fussier tropicals, add a sheer curtain to soften the light.
How to Optimise Lighting for Indoor Plants
Place light-loving plants close to south or west-facing windows.
Use sheer curtains to filter harsh rays from west or south-facing windows.
Rotate your plants weekly to avoid lopsided growth.
Supplement low light with artificial grow lights—especially in winter or for darker rooms.
Final Thoughts
Understanding what kind of light your home provides—and matching that with the right plant—is one of the most important steps in successful indoor gardening. With just a little observation and a few adjustments, you can turn any windowsill into a plant paradise.