HOW TO ADD HUMIDITY TO YOUR HOUSEPLANTS

A detailed guide on six different visually appealing methods to increase humidity for your plants.  We've also included a rating system to rank each method on how much humidity is added (low, medium, high).

NOTE: These methods do not involve buying a humidifier. Nor do these options include misting! More details on these points below.

DISCLAIMER: I have tested these methods using my own hygrometer, I am not a scientist. These methods are my own personal recommendations for increasing humidity levels or increasing humidity in a small area.   

(1) TOP DRESSING ON POTTED PLANT

Time

Prep Time: 5 min 

Materials

• HUMIDITY LOVING PLANT OF CHOICE - We are using our Cebu Blue and Philodendron Mayoi
• TOP DRESSING - possible material options could be: Pebbles / Rocks / Gravel, Coconut Coir, Moss, or Mulch.  We are using our Polished PEBBLES in color Natural and COCONUT COIR for this example.
• PLANT POT - We are using our 4" PLANT POT in Earth Grey 
• POTTING SOIL - to pot your humidity loving plant. We are using our ORGANIC POTTING SOIL - Size LARGE to fill (2) 4" pots
• SOIL SCOOP (optional) - to scoop soil into Plant Pot.
• WATER - to rinse Pebbles + water potted plants. We are using room temperature tap water.
• WATERING CAN (optional) - to water your Potted Plants.
• HYGROMETER (optional) - to monitor humidity levels around your plants.  We are using a Portable Analog Weather Station that reads both the temperature and humidity levels.

Instructions

1. Add a layer of POTTING SOIL into your PLANT POT w/ a SOIL SCOOP.

2. Place your PLANT OF CHOICE into Pot w/ soil and fill with Soil about 1-2" from the top edge of the Pot.

3. WATER your plant! Please make sure you have a saucer under your Plant Pot to prevent water from spilling everywhere. NOTE: you want to water BEFORE adding the top dressing because the Soil will sink down a little once wet.

4. Add an even layer of TOP DRESSING onto the top Soil around your plant.

• OPTIONAL: add a thin layer of Sand before adding top dressing.
• If using pebbles or moss - add enough so the top soil is completely covered.
• If using Coco Coir sheeting - we have a detailed tutorial on HOW TO MAKE COCONUT COIR POT COVERS that fit perfectly on top of your potted plant.
• If using PEBBLES - we have a detailed tutorial on HOW TO USE PEBBLES WITH PLANTS that demonstrates using pebbles as a top dressing.

Tips

• Use a natural material such as options suggested in the material list - there will be little to no benefits if you use an artificial material for a Top Dressing.
• Spread the Top dressing evenly over the soil and leave a small space around the plant stem to help prevent rot.
• Water carefully, keep top dressing moist but avoid over watering. 
• Combine the use of top dressing with other methods like grouping plants together or using an indoor greenhouse for a larger increase to the humidity level.

Benefits 

• help retain moisture in the soil by shading the soil and reducing the temperature below it
• help reduce pests such as fungus gnats as a it blocks them from laying eggs the Soil (add a layer of sand between soil and top dressing for more protection). 
• deter curious pets from getting into your plants or digging up roots
• prevent weeds from growing if you keep your potted plant outside
• provide plant support by keeping the stem upright
• decorative/aesthetic purposes

Humidity levels increased by as much as 1% - 3%

Variables impacting humidity levels: Type of Top Dressing, Plant Size & Type, Room Humidity levels, Room Temperature, Water frequency

(2) GROUPING WATER VESSELS

Time

Prep Time: 5 min

Materials 

• CUTTINGS OF HUMIDITY LOVING PLANT OF CHOICE - We are using 5 cuttings: Cebu Blue, Philodendron Brandi, Rhapidora, Philodendron Squamiferum,  Philodendron Bipennifolium
• VESSELS - Any container that holds water (preferably glass :).  We are using our SHORT 11oz glass & TALL 18oz glass from our UPCYCLED STONE PROP DISC + GLASS Sets. We are also using our UPCYCLED STONE PROP DISC + GLASS TUBE 
• PROPAGATION VESSEL (optional) - we are using our UPCYCLED STONE PROP DISC to hold the cuttings.
• PLANT COASTER (optional) - To protect your tabletop from water rings.
• WATER - To add to each vessel. We are using room temperature tap water.
• WATERING CAN (optional) - To add water to vessels
• HYGROMETER (optional) - to monitor humidity levels around your plants.  We are using a Portable Analog Weather Station that reads both the temperature and humidity levels.

Instructions

1. Select at least 3 cuttings of HUMIDITY LOVING PLANTS OF CHOICE. Please ensure all selected plants are healthy and pest free before adding to your water vessels.  The more plants in vessels you group, the more humidity they will create in their immediate space.  

2.  Select a VESSEL for each of your cuttings. (OPTIONAL) Add a PROPAGATION accessory to each vessel to help hold your cuttings upright in your water vessels.

3. Add clean + room temperature WATER to each of your VESSELS.

3. Simply place each cutting of your HUMIDITY LOVING PLANTS in each vessel.  Place vessels close together in your selected location. They should be almost touching each other.  

4. Add WATER to each vessel as needed.

5.  Keep an eye on humidity levels with a HYGROMETER.

Tips

• Using wider and more shallow water vessel will create higher humidity levels.
• Placing multiple water vessels around a plant will increase humidity levels
• Combine the use of water vessels with other methods like grouping plants together or using a humidifier for greater humidity control.

Benefits

• Easy and cost effective if using existing materials you have on hand.
• easier to manage when they are all together!
• decorative/aesthetic purposes

Our Humidity Score: LOW

Humidity levels increased by as much as 5%-10%

 

Variables impacting humidity levels: Number and Size of Water Vessels, Surface Area of Water, Room Size, Room Humidity levels, Room Temperature, Ventilation

(3) PEBBLE TRAY

Time

Prep Time: 5 min

Materials 

• HUMIDITY LOVING PLANT OF CHOICE - We are using our Philodendron Brandi and Philodendron Bipennifolium
• PLANT POT - We are using our 3" PLANT POT in Dark Grey 
• POTTING SOIL - to pot your humidity loving plants. We are using our ORGANIC POTTING SOIL - Size LARGE to fill (2) 4" pots
• TRAY - We are using our 5 5/8" PORCELAIN TRAY 
• ROCKS / PEBBLES / GRAVEL - We are using our Polished PEBBLES in Natural and Grey
• WATER - to rinse Pebbles + water potted plants. We are using room temperature tap water.
• STRAINER - to rinse the silt from your rocks / pebbles / gravel
• SOIL SCOOP (optional) - to scoop soil into Plant Pots.
• WATERING CAN (optional) - to water your humidity tray 
• HYGROMETER (optional) - to monitor humidity levels around your plants.  We are using a Portable Analog Weather Station that reads both the temperature and humidity levels.

Instructions 

1. Select your HUMIDITY LOVING PLANT OF CHOICE and check the Pot size. We are using our 3" diameter PORCELAIN PLANT POT.  

2. Select your TRAY - tray size should be at least 2" wider in diameter than your selected Plant Pot. We are using our 5 5/8" PORCELAIN TRAY.  

PLEASE do not use a TERRACOTTA TRAY as it will absorb the water and leak.  It is best to use a non-porous tray material such as Metal (that will not rust), Glass or a Glazed Ceramic/Porcelain.

4. IF NEEDED: Rinse your PEBBLES thoroughly in a STRAINER to remove any dirt from them and until water runs clean.

5. Add your clean PEBBLES in a thin layer covering the bottom of your TRAY - spread out evenly.  

6. Add your WATER to your PEBBLES + TRAY.  Only add a small amount to cover the bottom of your rocks.  Water level should stop before the top of your Rocks. 

7. Add your PLANT centered onto your HUMIDITY TRAY!

NOTE: You can use any type of PLANT POT with or without a drainage hole. 

***Our more detailed instructions and tutorial can be found HOW TO MAKE HUMIDTY TRAY

Tips

• Use a larger tray with more surface area to maximize water evaporation.
• Group multiple trays with plants to help increase humidity levels.
• Combine the use of humidity trays other methods such as grouping plants, water vessels, or placing in a greenhouse cabinet to raise humidity levels higher.

Benefits

• create a humid micro-climate for your plants
• can be used for bottom watering if you are using a pot with a drainage hole
• decorative/aesthetic purposes

Our Humidity Score: LOW

Humidity levels increased by as much as 5%-15%

Variables impacting humidity levels: Size of the Tray, Number of Plants, Room Size, Room Humidity levels, Room Temperature, Ventilation

(4) GROUP POTTED PLANTS

Time

Prep Time: 5 min

Materials 

• HUMIDITY LOVING PLANTS OF CHOICE - We are using 5 plants for this example: Philodendron Mayoi, Philodendron Squamiferum, Philodendron Bipennifolium, and Cebu Blue.  Group a minimum of 3 plants together.
• PLANT POT - We are using our 3", 4", & 5" PLANT POTS in Earth Grey 
• POTTING SOIL - to pot your humidity loving plants. We are using our ORGANIC POTTING SOIL 
• SOIL SCOOP (optional) - to scoop soil into Plant Pots.
• WATER - to hydrate your plants. We are using room temperature tap water.
• WATERING CAN (optional) - to water your Potted Plants.
• PLANT SUPPORT (optional) - we are using our PLANT ARCH to support our climbing plants.
• HYGROMETER  (optional) - to monitor humidity levels around your plants.  We are using a Portable Analog Weather Station that reads both the temperature and humidity levels.

Instructions 

1. Select at least 3 HUMIDITY LOVING PLANTS OF CHOICE. The more plants you group, the more humidity they will create in their immediate space.  

2. Please ensure all selected plants are healthy, pest free, and ideally planted using a well draining POTTING SOIL in PLANT POTS with drainage holes and saucers.  

3. Simply place all HUMIDITY LOVING PLANTS close together in your selected location. They should be almost touching each other.  

4. WATER as needed. Keep an eye on humidity levels with a HYGROMETER.

Tips

• Group a variety of plants together.
• Use at least a few plants known for higher transpiration rates (add more moisture to the air) *plants with bigger leaves tend to have higher rates!
• Place plants close to each other in help increase humidity, but leaves some space for air circulation. 
• Combine the use of grouping plants with other methods such as humidity trays or placing in a greenhouse cabinet to raise humidity levels higher.

Benefits

• Easy and cost effective if using existing materials you have on hand.
• easier to manage when they are all together!
• decorative/aesthetic purposes

Our Humidity Score: MEDIUM

Humidity levels increased by as much as 5%-25%

Variables impacting humidity levels: Number of Plants, Plant Sizes and Types, Room Size, Room Humidity levels, Ventilation, Temperature

(5) GLASS CLOCHE / COVER

Time

Prep Time: 5 min

Materials

• HUMIDITY LOVING PLANT OF CHOICE - We are using a Cebu Blue plant
• POTTING SOIL - to pot your humidity loving plant. We are using our ORGANIC POTTING SOIL - Size small.
• SOIL SCOOP (optional) - to scoop soil into Plant Pot. We are using our Stainless Steel SOIL SCOOP in Size Small.
• PLANT POT - to hold your humidity loving plant in. We are using our 3" Porcelain PLANT POT in Earth Grey
• GLASS COVER / LID - any glass cover that is approximately at least 1-2" larger in diameter and height than your potted plant. We are using an old IKEA glass cloche that is about 4" in diameter at the opening.
• WATER - to hydrate your plant and help create humidity. We are using room temperature tap water.
• WATERING CAN (optional) - to water your Potted Plant.
• PLANT COASTER / TRAY (optional) - any coaster, saucer or tray that can be used between your glass cover and table surface to protect your furniture.  We are using our Size Small 4" PLANT COASTER and our Small PORCELAIN TRAY in color Natural.

Instructions 

1. Select your HUMIDITY LOVING PLANT OF CHOICE and check the Pot size. We are using a Cebu Blue in a 3" PLANT POT.  Ideally use a pot with a drainage hole and saucer.

2. If you need to re-pot your plant, please try to use a well draining POTTING MIX as most humidity loving tropical plants prefer loose and porous soil. 

3. Select a location for your PLANT OF CHOICE and GLASS COVER, ideally away from direct sunlight.

4. Give your PLANT OF CHOICE a good amount of WATER.  

5. Next, simply place your GLASS COVER over your PLANT OF CHOICE.  Ensure that the glass opening is at least 1" larger than your PLANT POT.  Also be sure there is space between the top of your plant and the top of the glass, so there will be space for your plant to grow.

6. OPTIONAL: Add a PLANT COASTER underneath both the PLANT POT and GLASS COVER to help protect your table surface from excess moisture and water rings.

7. Please ensure to take off the GLASS COVER periodically to release some of the excess condensation, water as needed, and to check on your plant!  This will help increase air circulation and prevent mold and bacteria growth.  

Tips

• Ensure there are no gaps at the bottom opening of your cloche when it is over your plant pot.
• Avoid overwatering to prevent mold growth.
• Keep out of direct sunlight as the cloche will increase the temperature under the glass and can cause overheating. 

Benefits

• Creates a mini humid micro-climate.  Moisture created from watering or your plant itself, will create condensation that can be reabsorbed by the plant within its glass cover!
• Less watering. I've noticed for my plants that use the Glass Cloche, I do not need to water them nearly as frequently as my other houseplants without a cover. 
• decorative/aesthetic purposes

Our Humidity Score: HIGH 

Humidity levels increased by as much as 20% - 40%

Variables impacting humidity levels: Size of the Cloche, Plant Size & Type, Room Humidity levels, Temperature, Water frequency

(6) MINI GREENHOUSE 

Time

Prep Time: 5 min

Materials 

• MINI GREENHOUSE  - We are using our own DIY Greenhouse Cabinet
• HUMIDITY LOVING PLANT OF CHOICE - We are using a variety of types of Philodendrons, Hoyas, and Avocado plants.
• PLANT POTS - We are using our 3", 4", & 5" Porcelain PLANT POTS in Earth Grey 
• POTTING SOIL - to pot your humidity loving plants. We are using our ORGANIC POTTING SOIL.
• SOIL SCOOP (optional) - to scoop soil into Plant Pot.
• COASTER or TRAY (optional) - To protect your tabletop from water rings. We are using our  PLANT COASTER and PORCELAIN TRAYS to help prevent water damage in our cabinet.
• WATER -  to hydrate your plants and help create humidity. We are using room temperature tap water.
• WATERING CAN (optional) - to water all of your plants and seed starts.
• HYGROMETER - to monitor humidity levels around your plants.  We are using a Portable Analog Weather Station that reads both the temperature and humidity levels.

FOR SEED STARTING

• SEEDS OF CHOICE - We are starting a mix of our Organic Herb and Vegetable SEEDS
• POTTING OR SEED STARTING MIX - lightweight mix to start your Seeds. We are using our ORGANIC POTTING SOIL.
• STARTER POTS - We are using our COCONUT COIR SEED STARTER POTS

Instructions 

1.  Select your MINI GREENHOUSE location - we have ours set up with grow lights tucked in a corner of our dining room.  Ideal location will be high visibility so you can check on frequently as needed.

2. Select your HUMIDITY LOVING PLANTS OF CHOICE and/or STARTER POTS if using for Seed Starting. 

3. If you need to re-pot any plants, please try to use a well draining POTTING MIX as most humidity loving tropical plants prefer loose and porous soil. 

4. Give all of your PLANTS OF CHOICE a good amount of WATER.  

5. Next, simply place PLANTS as desired inside the MINI GREENHOUSE, ideally shorter plants towards front and taller towards the back.  We use the top shelf of our Cabinet for Seed Starting and the bottom level for houseplants.

6. OPTIONAL: Add TRAYS or PLANT COASTER underneath to help protect your cabinet surface from excess moisture and water rings.

7. Please ensure to open the MINI GREENHOUSE periodically to release some of the excess condensation and to check on your plant!

Tips

• Seal or cover any large gaps.  It is important to ensure the cabinet is well sealed to prevent too much heat or humidity from escaping.
• Ensure there is some air circulation (i.e. fans) to help prevent mold and mildew growth.
• Combine with other methods such as grouping plants or using humidity trays to raise humidity levels higher.

Benefits

• Creates a humid micro-climate.  Moisture created from both watering and the plants, will create condensation that can be reabsorbed by the plants within the cabinet.
• Controlled environment.  Easier to control the humidity and temperature within a smaller space compared to trying to control within a room or home.
• Space saving. This is a great option for indoor spaces to help control humidity level for your plants.
• Indoor Seed Starting!  I use the top shelf of the cabinet to start all my herb and vegetable seeds.  The controlled light and temperature is perfect for starting seeds indoors before transitioning to your outdoor garden.
• Less watering. I've noticed for my plants that use the Glass Cloche, I do not need to water them nearly as frequently as my other houseplants without a cover.  With that said, don't forget to water as needed.
• decorative/aesthetic purposes

Our Humidity Score: HIGH

Humidity levels increased by as much as 30%-50%

Variables impacting humidity levels: Sealing and Construction, Plant Density, Cabinet Humidity levels, Water Sources, Ventilation, Temperature

Summary

Our recommendations in order from lowest to highest increase in humidity are:

 _____________________________________________

Why We Don't Recommend Misting

1.  Risk of Mold, Mildew, or Fungal infections from water droplets left on plant.
2. Provides only a temporary increase in humidity levels which can be more stressful for your plants
3. Water Spots left on leaves can cause leaf damage such as sunburn when exposed to direct sunlight.
4. Not beneficial for some types of plants, such as plants with hairy or textured leaves.
5. Increased risk of overwatering by adding excessive moisture to the soil, which can lead to root rot.
6. Can encourages pest problems, some pests such as fungus gnats, or spider mites really thrive in moist environments.

Notes on Humidifiers

I personally do not use a humidifier in my home for several reasons.

1.  I am located in North Carolina and even with heat and AC indoors, the humidity levels stay relatively high (compared to living somewhere in the desert).

2.  I do not like the cleaning maintenance that is involved with owning a humidifier.  Technically, to prevent bacteria growth you should clean the humidifier every 1-3 days (opinions vary on this), regardless you need to clean iit a lot! BUT If you need to quickly and consistently increase humidity in your room or home, you might want to try a humidifier.

Notes on "Showering Plants" 

I often see people recommend to give your plants a shower in your bathroom to boost humidity levels.  Unless you are leaving the plants in your bathroom, this will only provide a very temporary increase to your plant humidity levels.

Have you tried any of these humidity methods or any different methods? Do they work for you? Share below in the comments! 

Step by step video guide is also available on our YouTube