Guide To Growing Tropical Plants Indoors Many of the most common houseplants are actually native to tropical climates, which are located near the equator. Conditions in these regions are generally warm and humid, but they can vary. Plants from these areas that have become houseplants will grow best under the care of someone who understands how their native climates affect their growth. Here are some tips about how to successfully grow tropical plants indoors. Most tropicals are native to locations that have both wet and dry seasons. The wet season is the growing season, when new foliage and sometimes blooms will sprout. In any location, a houseplant will generally need more water during the more humid half of the year, whether this is winter or summer. This mimics the wet season. It is extremely important not to over-water, however. Houseplants should have plenty of drainage, and they should only be watered when the top two inches of the soil has dried out. Soil that is never allowed to dry can cause the roots of a plant to rot. Different tropicals need different amounts of water, so it is necessary to figure out the needs of each specific plant. As with water, different tropicals also require different amounts and types of light. Most need at least five hours of bright light every day, but it should not be direct sunlight. Direct sunlight is too hot for the leaves of most tropicals. Still, it is important to find out the specific needs of a particular species, because some do like direct sun, and others prefer very low light. All tropicals are accustomed to higher humidity than is found in most homes and other buildings. Humidity of 40-80% is generally good, although they can tolerate lower levels during the dry season. A humidifier can be used to elevate the humidity in a room where tropicals are growing. Another way is to occasionally mist the leaves of a plant with water. Tropicals grow better in soil that is less dense than regular potting soil. It can help to mix in some sand, but nursery soils with the right mixture can also be purchased. It is good to use a small amount of fertilizer from time to time, but the soil should be flushed once in a while to prevent salts from building up. Soil should also be kept free of pests. A plant growing outdoors in the tropics is frequently washed clean with rain. The rain water rinses off any pests, and it also keeps dust and dirt from building up. Dust keeps the leaves from being able to breathe and can even prevent them from getting enough sunlight. The leaves of tropicals should be wiped off with a damp cloth from time to time to keep them healthy. Using a very mild soap can help kill unseen pests. Tropical plants can be successfully grown indoors. The trick is to understand where this type of plant comes from and the conditions under which it grows best. Replicating these conditions leads to a healthy, vibrant plant.