Creating a cozy spot outside doesn’t take much, just a few well-chosen plants and a bit of intention. A porch filled with greenery adds warmth and personality, and it can easily become your favorite place for morning coffee or evening unwinding. The trick is choosing plants that not only look good in containers but can also handle the changing conditions of an outdoor setup.
Some plants thrive on a covered porch, soaking in indirect light and open air. Others, however, simply aren’t cut out for the job. They might look pretty on a shelf inside, but out on the porch, they’ll struggle or quickly fade. Here are 8 potted plants that do well outdoors, plus 5 you’re better off keeping indoors where they’re happiest.
Lavender
Lavender’s aroma is as soothing as a gentle breeze on a summer’s day. This lovely plant thrives in sunlight, making it ideal for a porch setting. Its purple blooms not only attract bees but also elevate the aesthetic of any outdoor space.
Lavender requires well-drained soil and regular pruning to promote growth. However, a small fact: Lavender’s scent is also known to repel mosquitoes, making it a dual-purpose plant. Consider placing it where it gets at least six hours of sun daily for optimal growth.
It’s a fragrant, delightful addition to your porch.
Fern
With its feathery fronds, the fern adds a touch of elegance to any porch. Ferns thrive in indirect light, making them perfect for shaded porch corners. They bring a sense of tranquility, with their gentle swaying in the breeze.
To keep ferns happy, maintain consistent moisture and avoid direct sunlight. They prefer humidity, so misting occasionally will keep them lush. Did you know? Ferns are ancient plants, with a history spanning over 360 million years.
Their timeless beauty makes ferns a cherished choice for porch spaces.
Spider Plant
Spider plants are like the friendly neighbors of the plant world, easy-going and welcoming. Known for their air-purifying properties, they thrive in both sun and shade, adapting well to varying porch conditions.
These plants are low maintenance, requiring only occasional watering. Their cascading leaves and occasional white flowers add charm and interest. Did you know? The spider plant is often given as a housewarming gift due to its resilience and adaptability.
It’s a versatile addition to any porch setting.
Succulents
Succulents are the water-wise wonders of the plant kingdom. Their unique shapes and vibrant colors make them perfect for sunny porches. Succulents store water in their leaves, allowing them to thrive with minimal watering.
They create a striking visual with their varied forms and hues. Ensure they have plenty of sunshine and well-drained soil. Fun fact: Succulents are popular in drought-prone areas due to their low water requirements.
These hardy plants are a beautiful, drought-resistant choice for your porch.
Geraniums
Geraniums bring vibrant color and cheerful blooms to any porch. Known for their vivid flowers, they thrive in sunny spots and are easy to care for.
These plants require regular watering but allow the soil to dry out between waterings to prevent root rot. Geraniums also benefit from deadheading to encourage more blooms. Did you know? Geraniums were popular among Victorian gardeners for their showy flowers.
Their striking appearance and low maintenance make them a delightful porch plant.
Basil
Basil is the quintessential herb for an indoor garden, thriving on a sunny windowsill. Its aromatic leaves add a burst of flavor to culinary dishes and are a fragrant delight themselves.
This herb requires regular watering and plenty of sunlight to flourish. Interestingly, basil is considered a symbol of love in Italy. Keep it near the kitchen, where it can be easily snipped for cooking, but avoid placing it outdoors where harsh elements might damage its tender leaves.
Basil is a flavorful indoor staple.
Orchids
Orchids are the elegant divas of the plant world, requiring just the right conditions to thrive indoors. Their exotic blooms bring a touch of sophistication to any room.
These beauties prefer indirect light and a humidity-controlled environment. Orchids need precise watering schedules to avoid root rot. Fun fact: Orchids are among the largest families of flowering plants, with over 25,000 species.
Their captivating blooms and intriguing care needs make them a fascinating indoor plant.
Fiddle Leaf Fig
The fiddle leaf fig stands as a bold statement piece in any indoor setting. Its large, glossy leaves capture attention and elevate interior decor effortlessly.
This plant demands bright, filtered light and consistent watering, but avoid overwatering to prevent leaf drop. Did you know? The fiddle leaf fig has become a symbol of contemporary design, often featured in home decor magazines.
While it can occasionally venture outdoors, it prefers the stable environment of indoors.
Aloe Vera
Aloe vera is not just a healing wonder but also a resilient indoor plant. Known for its medicinal gel, it thrives with minimal care.
Place it in a sunny spot and water sparingly, allowing the soil to dry between waterings. Aloe vera is ideal for forgetful gardeners. Did you know? Aloe vera has been used for medicinal purposes since ancient Egypt.
It’s an easy-going plant that fits well on indoor shelves, adding both health benefits and greenery.
Peace Lily
The peace lily exudes a serene presence with its elegant white blooms and lush leaves. It’s a perfect choice for indoor tranquility, known for its air-purifying abilities.
This plant thrives in low light and requires moderate watering. Peace lilies are forgiving but don’t like overwatering. Did you know? Peace lilies are often associated with peace and tranquility, making them popular in spiritual spaces.
Their graceful appearance makes them a lovely addition to indoor environments.
Rubber Plant
Rubber plants offer a robust presence with their dense, glossy leaves, making them a striking indoor choice. These plants adapt well to indoor environments, preferring bright, indirect light.
They need regular watering but allow the soil to dry out in between. Rubber plants are known for their air-cleaning properties. Fun fact: Despite their name, they do not produce rubber.
Their bold foliage adds a modern touch to any room.
Snake Plant
Snake plants, with their tall, upright leaves, are synonymous with resilience. They thrive on neglect, making them ideal for indoor plant enthusiasts.
These plants prefer indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions. Water sparingly, as they are drought-tolerant. Snake plants are known for improving indoor air quality by filtering toxins.
Their architectural form adds a contemporary flair to bedrooms and living spaces.
Begonias
Begonias bring a splash of color with their striking flowers and foliage. They thrive in shade, making them ideal for patios and shaded porches.
Regular watering is essential, but avoid overwatering. Begonias are versatile, adding beauty both indoors and outdoors. Did you know? Begonias are named after Michel Bégon, a French governor.
With their variety of colors and forms, begonias are a delightful choice for vibrant porch displays.