Bring cozy autumn vibes indoors with stunning fall houseplants. Choose varieties with rich colors, interesting textures, and easy care needs. This guide helps beginners select and care for the best indoor plants to capture fall’s essence, ensuring a beautiful and vibrant home all season long.
As the leaves outside transform into a breathtaking tapestry of crimson, gold, and russet, you might feel a pang of longing for that same cozy, vibrant beauty indoors. The cooler weather and shorter days can make our homes feel a little less cheerful, but don’t worry! Bringing the magic of autumn inside is simpler than you think, and it doesn’t require a green thumb. You can easily add warmth and color to your living space with the right indoor plants that shine during this season. Getting started can seem daunting, but we’ll walk through everything needed to transform your home into an autumnal haven.
Why Choose Indoor Plants for Fall?
Fall is a unique time of year. The air gets crisp, the days grow shorter, and many of us start spending more time indoors. This shift often calls for changes in our home décor to reflect the season’s mood. While pumpkins, gourds, and cozy throws are popular choices, houseplants offer a living, breathing element of autumn beauty that can last for months. Unlike temporary decorations, these plants continue to grow, adapt, and bring life to your space, offering both aesthetic appeal and potential air-purifying benefits.
Indoor plants can enhance your home’s atmosphere in several ways during the fall:
- Seasonal Color: Many plants naturally display warm, rich hues that perfectly complement fall palettes. Think deep reds, oranges, yellows, and earthy browns.
- Texture and Interest: Beyond color, fallen leaves from outdoor trees offer unique shapes and textures. Indoor plants can provide similar visual and tactile interest with their foliage.
- Improved Air Quality: As we spend more time inside, good air quality is essential. Many houseplants are known for their ability to filter common indoor pollutants.
- Boosted Mood: Nurturing plants can be a therapeutic activity, and their presence can create a calming and uplifting environment. This is especially welcome as days get shorter.
- Long-Lasting Decor: While seasonal items like pumpkins eventually decompose, a well-cared-for plant provides ongoing beauty and can be enjoyed for years.
Choosing the Right Indoor Plants for Autumn
When selecting “indoor plants for fall,” we’re often looking for plants that either naturally thrive in cooler temperatures, boast fall-like colors, or have foliage that mimics autumnal patterns. For beginners, it’s crucial to pick plants that are forgiving and not too demanding. Here are some excellent options, keeping ease of care and seasonal appeal in mind:
Plants with Fall Foliage Colors
These plants offer vibrant shades of red, orange, yellow, and bronze, reminiscent of autumn leaves:
- Croton (Codiaum variegatum): Crotons are famous for their spectacularly colorful leaves, which can range from bright yellow and orange to deep red and bronze. The intensity of their color often deepens with more sunlight. They add an instant pop of fall vibrancy.
- Prayer Plant (Maranta leuconeura): While not explicitly “fall” colors, the intricate patterns on Prayer Plant leaves, often featuring shades of red and deep green, give them a very autumnal and exotic feel. Their unique ability to fold their leaves up at night adds to their charm.
- Coleus (Plectranthus scutellarioides): Many varieties of Coleus have stunning foliage that perfectly captures fall colors, with leaves patterned in shades of red, bronze, yellow, and green. While often grown outdoors, many can be successfully overwintered as houseplants.
- Nerve Plant (Fittonia albivenis): Known for their striking veined leaves in shades of pink, red, or white against a deep green background, Nerve Plants offer a subtle yet impactful splash of color that fits well with the fall theme.
Plants with Interesting Textures and Forms
These plants bring visual depth and a cozy, grounded feel to your indoor space:
- Snake Plant (Dracaena trifasciata, formerly Sansevieria trifasciata): With its architectural, upright leaves, the Snake Plant provides a striking silhouette. Its resilience and air-purifying qualities make it a beginner’s best friend. While not colorful, its form is a strong design element.
- ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia): Another incredibly hardy plant, the ZZ Plant has glossy, dark green leaves on sturdy stems. Its structural form adds sophistication, and it tolerates low light and infrequent watering, making it ideal for busy individuals.
- Pothos (Epipremnum aureum): Available in various variegations (golden, marble queen, neon), Pothos vines are incredibly easy to care for and can be trained to trail or climb. Their lush foliage adds a sense of abundance to any room.
- Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum): Known for its arching leaves and ability to produce “spiderettes” (baby plants), the Spider Plant is cheerful and easy to propagate. Its feathery foliage adds a soft texture.
Flowering Plants for a Fall Touch
While many classic fall outdoor plants like chrysanthemums don’t fare well indoors long-term, there are some flowering options:
- Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana): These succulents produce clusters of bright, cheerful flowers in vibrant reds, oranges, yellows, and pinks. They bloom for extended periods and are relatively drought-tolerant.
- African Violet (Saintpaulia ionantha): African Violets offer delicate blooms in shades of purple, pink, and white. They prefer consistent care but reward with beautiful flowers, adding a touch of softer color.
- Begonia (various species): Many begonia varieties boast stunning foliage and delicate flowers. Some, like the Rex Begonia, are primarily grown for their elaborately colored and textured leaves that can have a distinctly autumnal feel.
Essential Care Tips for Fall Indoor Plants
As the seasons change, so do the needs of your indoor plants. Here’s how to adjust your plant care routine for autumn:
Light Requirements
Days are shorter in fall, meaning less natural light is available. Many plants will benefit from being moved closer to windows, especially south-facing ones, to maximize sunlight exposure. However, be mindful of the intensity of direct sunlight, which can still scorch leaves. For plants that tolerate lower light, ensure they are still in a well-lit area. Some plants, like Crotons, need ample light to maintain their vibrant colors. If your home is particularly dark, consider using a grow light, a sustainable option to ensure your plants get the light they need. The Royal Horticultural Society offers great insights into plant lighting needs.
Watering Adjustments
With cooler temperatures and less evaporation, your plants will likely need less water than they did during the summer. Overwatering is one of the most common ways beginners can harm their plants. It’s crucial to check the soil moisture before watering. Stick your finger about an inch or two into the soil. If it feels dry at that depth, it’s time to water. If it feels moist, wait a few more days and check again. Ensure your pots have drainage holes to prevent water from sitting at the roots, which can lead to root rot. Plants like succulents and ZZ plants prefer to dry out thoroughly between waterings, making them ideal for this season.
Humidity Levels
As we turn on heating systems, indoor air can become very dry, which is detrimental to many plants, especially tropical varieties. To combat this, you can:
- Misting: Lightly misting your plants with water can provide a temporary humidity boost. Use a fine-mist spray bottle and mist the leaves in the morning so they have time to dry.
- Pebble Trays: Place the plant pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water. As the water evaporates, it increases humidity around the plant. Make sure the bottom of the pot isn’t sitting directly in the water.
- Grouping Plants: Clustering plants together can create a microclimate with higher humidity.
- Humidifier: For a more consistent solution, consider using a small room humidifier.
For beginners, focusing on plants that tolerate lower humidity, like Snake Plants or ZZ Plants, can simplify care.
Temperature and Drafts
Most indoor plants thrive in temperatures that are comfortable for humans, typically between 65-75°F (18-24°C). However, they are sensitive to sudden temperature fluctuations. Keep plants away from cold drafts from windows or doors, and also from direct heat sources like radiators, fireplaces, or heating vents. These extremes can shock the plant, causing leaf drop or stress.
Fertilizing
During fall and winter, most houseplants enter a period of slower growth, similar to dormancy. It’s generally recommended to reduce or stop fertilizing during these months. The plant isn’t actively growing and taking up nutrients as it would in the spring and summer. Over-fertilizing can lead to a buildup of salts in the soil, which can damage the roots. If you notice a particular plant still growing vigorously, a very diluted fertilizer might be applied sparingly, but for most beginners, skipping fertilizer in fall and winter is the safest bet.
Top 5 Beginner-Friendly Fall Houseplants
Here’s a handy table of some of the easiest-to-care-for plants that will bring that essential autumn beauty into your home:
| Plant Name | Key Fall Appeal | Ease of Care | Light Needs | Watering Needs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Snake Plant (Dracaena trifasciata) | Striking architectural form adds drama. | Very Easy | Low to bright indirect light. Tolerates low light well. | Water thoroughly when soil is completely dry (infrequent). |
| ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia) | Glossy, deep green leaves add a rich, grounded feel. | Very Easy | Low to bright indirect light. Tolerates very low light. | Water thoroughly when soil is completely dry (infrequent). |
| Pothos (Epipremnum aureum) | Vibrant variegation (gold, marble) adds color. Trailing vines create lushness. | Easy | Medium to bright indirect light. Tolerates lower light. | Water when top inch of soil is dry. |
| Croton (Codiaum variegatum) | Brilliant red, orange, and yellow foliage mimics fall leaves. | Moderate (needs consistent care for best color) | Bright, indirect light is essential for good color. Avoid direct sun. | Water when top inch of soil is dry. Enjoys consistent moisture but not soggy soil. |
| Kalanchoe (Kalanchoe blossfeldiana) | Bright red, orange, and yellow flowers add festive fall color. | Easy (as a flowering plant) | Bright, indirect light. Can tolerate some direct morning sun. | Water when soil is dry to the touch. Prefers to dry out between waterings. |
Bring the Outdoors In: Natural Fall Decor with Plants
Beyond just choosing the right plants, you can integrate them with other natural elements to create a truly autumnal atmosphere. Think about how nature presents itself in fall:
- Grouping with Natural Elements: Place your potted plants near arrangements of pinecones, acorns, dried leaves (collected responsibly, of course!), or small gourds. The textures and colors of these natural finds complement the greenery and vibrant foliage of your plants beautifully.
- Rustic Pots and Containers: Opt for pots made from natural materials like terracotta, ceramic with earthy glazes, or woven baskets. These materials enhance the rustic, cozy feel of fall. For a DIY touch, you could even paint plain terracotta pots in fall colors or wrap them with burlap.
- Fallen Branches: A beautifully twisted bare branch, perhaps with a few dried leaves still attached, can be a striking sculptural element placed in a corner or a tall vase. You can even hang small, lightweight ornaments or photos from it.
- Seasonal Scents: While not directly plant-related, consider pairing your fall plants with natural fall scents. A few cinnamon sticks tied with twine, dried orange peels, or a gentle simmer pot with fall spices can add another sensory layer to your autumn ambiance.
Remember to source any natural materials responsibly. For instance, when collecting leaves or branches, ensure you are not harming living plants or ecosystems.
Creative Plant Displays for Fall
Get creative with how you showcase your new fall beauties! Think about creating focal points and varying heights to add visual interest.
Tiered Stands and Shelving
Utilize vertical space by placing plants on tiered stands, shelves, or an étagère. This allows you to display multiple plants without taking up too much floor space. Grouping plants at different heights creates a lush, layered look that mimics a miniature autumn landscape. You could place a taller Snake Plant on the bottom, a colorful Croton in the middle, and a small Kalanchoe on top.
Hanging Plants
For apartment dwellers or those with busy surfaces, hanging plants are a fantastic solution. Pothos and Spider Plants, with their trailing vines, look stunning suspended from macrame hangers or from hooks on the ceiling. This adds an element of life and movement to your space, drawing the eye upwards and creating a sense of abundance.
Repurposed Containers
Embrace your inner eco-crafter! Old wooden crates, vintage tins, or even distressed ceramic bowls can be transformed into unique planters. Ensure they have drainage holes (you might need to drill them) or use them as decorative cachepots over nursery pots. This adds character and a personal touch to your fall décor, aligning perfectly with sustainable living principles.
Plant Stands for Visual Elevation
A stylish plant stand can elevate not only the plant but also the overall aesthetic of your room. Stands come in various materials and heights, from minimalist metal designs to ornate carved wood. They help protect your floors and furniture while making your plants a stunning design feature. A mid-century modern stand with a bright Pothos can add a pop of color and an elegant touch.
Troubleshooting Common Fall Plant Issues
Even with the best intentions, plants can sometimes encounter issues. Here are a few common problems beginners might face during fall and how to handle them:
Yellowing Leaves
Yellowing leaves can be a sign of overwatering (most common in fall due to reduced watering needs) or underwatering. Check the soil moisture. If it’s soggy, reduce watering. If it’s bone dry and the plant looks wilted, it needs water. Yellowing can also sometimes be a sign of insufficient light, especially for plants that rely on bright light for color, like Crotons.
Drooping or Wilting Leaves
This is often a sign of thirst. The plant is essentially signaling that it doesn’t have enough water to support its foliage. Check the soil. If it’s dry, give it a good watering. However, if the soil is wet and the plant is still drooping, it might be suffering from root rot due to overwatering, a much more serious issue. In that case, you may need to repot the plant into fresh, dry soil and trim away any rotted roots.
Pests (e.g., Spider Mites, Mealybugs)
As plants are brought indoors for the fall, they can sometimes carry pests with them. Regularly inspect your plants, especially the undersides of leaves. If you spot pests:
- Isolate the plant immediately to prevent spreading.
- Wipe off visible pests with a damp cloth or cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol for mealybugs.
- Treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil, following product instructions carefully. Neem oil is a great, eco-friendly option. You can find reliable resources on pest management from university extensions, such as the UC IPM.
- Rinse the plant after treatment if recommended by the product.
- Repeat treatments may be necessary.
Leaf Drop
Sudden leaf drop can occur due to stress from changes in environment, temperature fluctuations (drafts), or watering issues. Ensure your plant is in a stable location with consistent conditions. If it’s a plant that naturally sheds some older leaves, don’t worry too much, as long as new growth is appearing.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What makes a plant a good “fall” houseplant?
A: Fall houseplants typically have foliage in warm colors (reds, oranges, yellows), interesting textures that mimic natural fall elements
