How much light does your window really get?
Check the direction, distance from the glass, and how long sunlight reaches the spot you have in mind.
The Zairi Flowers team · Updated 03.11.2026
Get to know the spot before you bring a plant home. A south-facing window behind a covered balcony can get less light than an unobstructed window facing another way.
Take a look three times in one day
- Check the spot in the morning, around noon and in the afternoon.
- Note when sunlight falls directly where the pot will sit.
- Look for a curtain, an awning or a nearby building, and check how far the pot will be from the glass.
Bright, indirect light feels different from a ray of sun on the leaves. Even a plant that tolerates low light needs some daylight.
See how your plant settles in
Thin, stretched growth or dropping leaves can be a clue that the plant needs more light. Scorched patches may point to too much. Compare what you see with the plant’s needs and think about any recent changes.
When you ask us to help you choose a plant, tell us what you’ve observed. You can always choose “Not sure yet” and check the spot again.