These plants do not like dry air. Better move them away from the radiator

In winter, our apartments often resemble a sauna … but without a couple. The radiators heat with full power, and the air becomes dry as in a desert climate. We feel it as scratching in the throat or chapped lips, and plants? They suffer in silence – the leaves wither, the buds fall down, and the whole plant loses vitality. Some species are particularly sensitive and require exceptional care in the heating season. The most exposed plants:

1. – Their delicate air roots and leaves need high humidity. Near the radiator, they lose their firmness quickly, and the buds fall before they manage to develop;
2. Ferns (e.g. Nefrolepis, Adiantum) – These are plants that literally “drink” moisture from the surroundings. When it is missing, the leaves turn yellow and massively;
3. – dry air causes the browning of the edges of the leaves and their rolling;
4. Ficus – They bear badly not only dry air, but also sudden temperature changes. Result? Sudden and massive losing leaves.
5. Kaktusy I Sukulenty – Paradoxically, although they are associated with the desert, they do not tolerate hot, dry air from the radiator. Too high temperature and lack of breath can even lead to rotting the base of the plant.

Scientific work published in Australian Journal of Crop Science in 2025, she confirmed that in family plants Araceae (np. Epipremnum, Philodendron) The air roots worked much more effectively in the conditions of elevated humidity, and with low growth it was clearly limited. It is also worth remembering that the leaves of plants create their own “microclimate”. Inside the leaf, in the so -called Substomatal cavities, humidity decreases when the surrounding air is dry. This disturbs gas exchange processes and photosynthesis.

In winter, dry radiators work in full swing, and humidity often drops below 30%. However, plants feel best in the range of 50-70%. This is why many species then begin to get sick, lose leaves or lose their decorative appearance. However, there are several proven ways that allow you to improve the microclimate at home – without the need to invest in expensive equipment.

• air humidifier – This is the most reliable way to maintain a proper humidity level. Modern devices allow you to control real -time parameters, and some models are equipped with hygrometers that automatically adjust the intensity of work;
• Park with water and pebbles: Just set the pot on a base filled with pebbles and water. Steaming liquid creates a local microclimate around the plant, and the roots do not have direct contact with water, so they are not in danger of rotting. This is a particularly good solution for ferns or kalatea that need constant humidity.
• Spring of leaves – This is a quick way to improve the conditions, but not every plant tolerates them. Ferns, monsters or palm trees They react to them very well, while orchids Can plants with hairy leaves (e.g. African violets) suffer – water on the leaves promotes the development of fungal diseases. It’s best to use soft, protruding water and spray plants in the morning so that the leaves manage to dry before night;
• dishes with water on the radiator: Just put a ceramic or metal vessel with water on the radiator. Under the influence of heat, water evaporates, increasing the humidity in the room. This solution is particularly useful in the bedroom or living room, where it is difficult to set additional devices.

Plants set close to each other form their own, wetter ecosystem. Each of them gives water through the transpiration process, and in the group this effect is intensified. This is why in large orangery or winter gardens humidity remains at a higher level than in individual rooms. So let’s create small “green islands” at home – they will not only improve the conditions for plants, but will also be a beautiful interior decoration.

In the heating season, the plants are best set minimum meter from the radiator. However, this is only the beginning, because we must also provide them with adequate microclimate. They will find great in the bathroom with the window – There, the humidity of the air is naturally higher, and the water vapor from the bath is a free humidifier. Orchids, in turn, like calmer conditions, which is why they feel good in the bedroom, if it is not overheated. Monster and ficus are best placed in the living room, but away from radiators and drafts – stability is a key to healthy growth for them.

The kitchen can be a good compromise, because there is often higher humidity, but you have to watch out for sudden temperature changes and cooking fumes. It is also worth remembering that plants react not only to humidity and temperature, but also to air quality. The presence of dust, fat or smoke can be as harmful to them as for people.