Houseplants need light, and usually plenty of it. We’re not talking direct sunlight here, though. Most houseplants thrive in a bright spot but sheltered from direct exposure, making the windowsill a perfect spot – east facing is usually best. East facing windows allow the plant to receive morning sun (which is usually cooler than the afternoon) and indirect sun in the latter part of the day.

Here’s a general rule: plants that have flowers or variegated leaves generally require the most light, while plants that are mainly foliage require the least. Cactii, for example, require plenty of light and do well sitting on the sill of an eastern facing window. Ferns, on the other hand, should be kept in a shadier spot far away from the heat of sunlight.

So how do you know if your plant is getting enough light? Easy. Simply look at how your plant is growing.

Are the stems of your houseplant growing toward the light source?
Are the stems spindly?
Do the leaves seem to grow sparsely and are smaller than usual?
Does the plant seem to grow extraordinarily slowly?

If you answer yes to these questions, then your houseplant needs more light!

Are the leaves pale and/or yellowish?
Do the leaves look unhealthy and seem to sag or curl down sadly?
Are there any brown spots on the leaves?

If you answer yes to any of these questions, then your houseplant needs less light!

Adjust the lightining for your houseplant, and you’ll find that it will slowly repair itself (you may also want to consider other things like humidity levels and fertilizer if it doesn’t).