Living in a small apartment or condo doesn’t mean you have to compromise on greenery. In fact, hanging indoor plants are the perfect solution for adding lush foliage without taking up precious floor space. They can transform a room, purify the air, and bring life to any corner. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned plant lover, this guide will help you choose and care for the best hanging indoor plants for small spaces.
Why Hanging Indoor Plants Are Perfect for Small Spaces
Hanging plants offer several advantages for apartments and compact living areas:
- Space-saving: By utilizing vertical space, you free up room on shelves, desks, and floors.
- Visual interest: Hanging greenery draws the eye upward and adds a dynamic design element.
- Air purification: Many indoor plants naturally filter toxins from the air, improving air quality.
- Low maintenance: Many hanging plants require minimal care and adapt well to indoor environments.
Tip: Even a small balcony or kitchen corner can become vibrant with the addition of a few hanging pots.
How to Choose the Right Hanging Indoor Plants
When selecting plants for hanging baskets, consider:
- Light requirements: Some plants thrive in bright indirect sunlight, while others tolerate low light.
- Growth habits: Trailing plants work best in hanging pots; avoid bushy plants that need wide soil space.
- Maintenance level: Opt for low-maintenance plants if you have a busy lifestyle.
- Safety: If you have pets or small children, ensure the plant is non-toxic.
Tip: Group plants with similar light and water needs together to simplify care.
Top 10 Best Hanging Indoor Plants for Small Spaces
1. Pothos (Epipremnum aureum)
Why it’s great: Extremely hardy, grows well in low to bright indirect light, and has beautiful trailing vines.
Care tips:
- Water when the top inch of soil is dry.
- Prune to control length and encourage bushier growth.
- Can be grown in water or soil.
2. Spider Plant (Chlorophytum comosum)
Why it’s great: Produces “babies” that hang attractively from the main plant, perfect for small spaces.
Care tips:
- Thrives in bright, indirect light.
- Water moderately; avoid waterlogging.
- Fertilize occasionally during the growing season.
3. String of Pearls (Senecio rowleyanus)
Why it’s great: Unique, bead-like foliage creates a stunning visual in hanging baskets.
Care tips:
- Prefers bright, indirect light.
- Allow soil to dry out between watering.
- Avoid overwatering; roots are prone to rot.
4. Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)
Why it’s great: Adds lush, feathery foliage to a room and thrives in hanging baskets.
Care tips:
- Prefers high humidity and indirect light.
- Keep soil consistently moist but not soggy.
- Mist leaves occasionally to prevent dryness.
5. Heartleaf Philodendron (Philodendron hederaceum)
Why it’s great: Trailing vines with heart-shaped leaves, very adaptable to different indoor environments.
Care tips:
- Tolerates low to medium light.
- Water when soil is partially dry.
- Prune regularly to encourage fuller growth.
6. String of Hearts (Ceropegia woodii)
Why it’s great: Delicate trailing plant with heart-shaped leaves, perfect for small shelves or hanging baskets.
Care tips:
- Thrives in bright, indirect light.
- Water sparingly; let soil dry between watering.
- Propagate easily from cuttings.
7. Lipstick Plant (Aeschynanthus radicans)
Why it’s great: Glossy leaves with vibrant red flowers add color to any indoor garden.
Care tips:
- Prefers bright, indirect light.
- Keep soil slightly moist, not waterlogged.
- Trim occasionally to maintain shape.
8. Burro’s Tail (Sedum morganianum)
Why it’s great: A succulent with trailing stems, ideal for sunny spots in small spaces.
Care tips:
- Needs bright light to thrive.
- Water sparingly; drought-tolerant.
- Handle gently; leaves are delicate and can fall off easily.
9. Maidenhair Vine (Muehlenbeckia complexa)
Why it’s great: Fine, airy foliage gives a soft, flowing effect in hanging baskets.
Care tips:
- Requires bright, indirect light.
- Keep soil slightly moist.
- Prune to maintain shape and encourage growth.
10. Hoya (Hoya carnosa)
Why it’s great: Wax-like foliage and occasional fragrant flowers make it a favorite for indoor gardens.
Care tips:
- Prefers bright, indirect light.
- Water when soil is dry.
- Minimal pruning needed; slow-growing.
Choosing the Right Containers for Hanging Plants
The right container can make or break your mini indoor garden:
- Lightweight pots: Essential for hanging to prevent strain on hooks and ceiling mounts.
- Self-watering pots: Ideal for people who may forget to water regularly.
- Decorative baskets: Add style while accommodating plant growth.
- Drainage: Ensure good drainage to avoid root rot.
Tip: Consider using macramé hangers—they’re stylish, versatile, and help save space.
Placement and Light Considerations
- Hang plants near windows with indirect sunlight for optimal growth.
- Use sheer curtains to filter strong sunlight for delicate foliage.
- Consider rotating plants every few weeks for even growth.
- In low-light apartments, supplement with LED grow lights.
Watering and Maintenance Tips
- Check soil moisture regularly; most hanging plants don’t like to sit in water.
- Prune dead or yellowing leaves to encourage healthy growth.
- Fertilize during the growing season with a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer.
- Rotate baskets occasionally to ensure even light exposure.
Tip: Use a watering can with a long spout for easy access to hanging baskets.
Creative Ways to Incorporate Hanging Plants in Small Spaces
- Clustered hangers: Hang multiple plants at varying heights for a dynamic display.
- Above furniture: Suspend plants over desks, shelves, or tables to free up floor space.
- Vertical gardens: Attach multiple small planters to a wall-mounted frame.
- Kitchen or bathroom greens: Add trailing herbs or ferns to brighten functional spaces.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Hanging heavy pots from weak hooks or ceilings.
- Overwatering or letting soil sit soggy in poorly-draining pots.
- Choosing plants that require more light than your space provides.
- Neglecting pruning or pest inspection.
Conclusion
Hanging indoor plants are a stylish, space-saving solution for small apartments. They bring life, color, and improved air quality to any room while freeing up valuable floor space. From low-maintenance Pothos to elegant String of Hearts, there’s a hanging plant suited to every taste and skill level.
By choosing the right plants, containers, and placement, and maintaining proper care, your hanging indoor plants will thrive and transform your small space into a green oasis. Start small, experiment with styles, and enjoy the beauty and serenity that comes from a flourishing indoor garden. 🌿