A field guide for home
← Back to the journalWINDOW OBSERVATIONS

Reading the light on a windowsill

Practical notes for taking the next sensible step.

01

Begin with the room

Stand where the plant will live and watch the room on two ordinary days. Note when the glass admits direct sun, and where nearby walls or trees cast shade.

02

Consider distance

A bright-looking room is not equally bright everywhere. A shelf two metres from the window can receive much less usable light than a sill just beside it.

03

Make one adjustment

Move a struggling plant a modest distance rather than changing its soil, water and location together. Compare the next few leaves with the older growth.

04

Separate light from heat

A bright pane can also be hot or cold. Keep foliage away from extreme glass temperatures even when the light itself seems suitable.

Curious about another topic?

WateringLightPlants