Prayer plants are popular indoor plants known for their colorful and vibrant foliage. Like most plants, they also need the sun to survive.
However, prayer plants only need bright, indirect light to thrive. Direct sunlight may cause scorching and sunburn on the leaves, causing damage to the plant.
In an indoor setting where natural light is limited, one can use artificial light. It’s essential to provide prayer plants with the right amount and type of light to ensure their growth and survival.
Does a Prayer Plant Need Direct Sunlight?
Light has always played an essential role in plant growth and survival, providing energy for photosynthesis and food production. When a plant receives adequate sunlight, it’ll grow strong and healthy, with vibrant foliage.
Inadequate light may cause slowed growth, pale leaves, and susceptibility to pests and diseases. On the other hand, too much sunlight may cause sunburn and scorching on the leaves.
Plants need to receive adequate light for optimal growth and survival.
How Much Sun Does a Prayer Plant Need?
Prayer plants do need some light to grow, but they don’t require direct sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch their leaves and may cause sunburn.
As with their natural habitat, prayer plants thrive well in warm, natural light. Prayer plants need at least 4 hours of sunlight every day.
A location near a window with filtered light is ideal. You can also use sheer curtains to diffuse any direct sunlight.
When a suitable window isn’t available, you can also use fluorescent or grow lights.
What Happens to Prayer Plants Under Direct Sunlight?
Exposure to too much sunlight can cause damage to prayer plants. It could affect their overall health and appearance.
Some of the potential consequences of overexposure include:
Scorching
Prolonged exposure can cause the leaves to get scorched, become dry, and turn brown. It’s important to note that this damage is irreversible.
Sunburn
This is a condition where there’s obvious discoloration of the leaves of the plant. Additionally, you may also notice white or yellowish spots on the leaves.
Leaf damage
Overexposure to direct sunlight can cause it to become brittle and curl up. This reduces the overall appearance of the plant.
Signs That Your Prayer Plant Is Not Getting Enough Light
It’s important to be aware when your prayer plant isn’t receiving enough light. Some signs include:
1 – Pale Leaves
If a prayer plant isn’t getting enough light, its leaves can become pale and yellow, losing their vibrant green color.
2 – Slow Growth
A prayer plant not getting enough light may have slower growth than a healthy plant.
3 – Stunted Growth
Lack of light may prevent a prayer plant from growing to its full potential.
4 – Poor Foliage
In case your plant isn’t getting enough light, it may drop its leaves. Additionally, it may not flower or its leaves may be smaller or less vibrant.
5 – Leggy Stems
If a plant’s stems become long and spindly, it’s a sign that it’s reaching for the light.
Making Sure That Your Prayer Plant Is Getting Adequate Light
Consider the following care tips to make sure your plant is getting enough light:
Move The Plant
Relocate the plant to an area with filtered light, or a shadier part of your home.
Provide Protection
You can either hang a sheer curtain or cover the plant with a sheer fabric if it is located under direct sunlight. By doing this, any excess light will be filtered.
Water Regularly
Over-exposure can cause the prayer plant to dehydrate faster. Make sure to water the plant more regularly.
Check For Damage
Observe the plant for any browning, yellowing, or wilting. Note that your prayer plant may need trimming.
Gradual Exposure
If you plan to relocate your plant to a sunnier location, do so gradually for several weeks.
Use Artificial Light
In case your prayer plant received too much sunlight, you can consider using artificial light instead.
Final Thoughts
Light is essential for the growth and survival of prayer plants. It’s crucial to provide the right amount and type of light to ensure the plant stays healthy and thrives.
Too much sun can lead to scorching, sunburn, and other damage to the leaves. On the contrary, too little light can cause stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and other issues.
By providing bright, indirect light, you can make sure that your prayer plant receives the light it needs for optimal growth.
With proper care and attention, your prayer plant will continue to flourish as a beautiful and healthy indoor plant.
Growing up with a mom who filled her home (inside and out) with all sorts of plants, Lisa got her start in gardening at a young age. Living now on her own with a home and yard full of plants (including an indoor greenhouse), she shares all the gardening tips she’s gained over the years.