- 1). Select tropical plants that appeal to you. There are a wide variety to choose from ranging from tiny African violets to huge ficus trees. Keep in mind the space the mature plant will require and the lighting of your home. If you cannot provide the lighting the plant needs, choose a different plant and save yourself the frustration of trying to grow a plant that simply isn't suited to the environment you can provide.
- 2). Choose a location in your home to grow your collections of tropical plants. An east window that receives lots of morning light is always a good choice. Southern and Western windows are great as long as you provide filtered light and house your plants at a distance from the window. You can provide filtered light by hanging a sheer curtain or shade that allows light to penetrate, but softens the effects of direct light.
- 3). Group collections of tropical plants together to create a mini-habitat. It is much easier to provide for the needs of a group of plants in one place than to try to provide ideal settings in several areas of your home.
- 4). Set the plants on humidity trays filled with a layer of pebbles and covered with water. This will increase the humidity in the area and requires a constant supply of water. Do not allow the water to sit long enough to create mold or bacteria. Add just enough water for it to evaporate in a day or two. It is best to add fresh water on a daily basis.
- 5). Add a small circulatory fan to increase air flow and circulate stale are. Tropical plants will suffer if the air is not circulated properly. Be sure to leave room between plants for air to circulate freely. Set the fan on the lowest setting to create a soft breeze. Plants near windows will benefit from an open window that provides fresh air throughout the day.
- 6). Keep a small spray bottle or mister filled with fresh water near your tropical plants. Use this to provide a gentle mist for your tropical plants on a regular basis. Try misting twice a day to keep plants moist.
- 7). Provide fresh water to keep the soil moist. Follow the watering suggestions for the particular plants you are growing. Tropical plants need plenty of water, but do not like to sit in soggy soil. Be sure the potting mixture provides for good drainage. Water throughly and let the soil dry before watering again.
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