The Hidden Houseplant Struggle in Calgary Homes
Why your indoor plants might be craving more humidity and what you can do about it
If your houseplants are looking a little crispy, curling at the edges, or dropping leaves for no clear reason, the problem might not be your watering schedule or the light in your space.
In Calgary, one of the most overlooked challenges for indoor plants is low humidity — even during the summer.
Dry Air Doesn’t Stop at the Front Door
Calgary’s climate is famously dry. That’s great for clear skies, but less ideal for tropical houseplants that evolved in warm, humid environments.
Even when it’s warm outside, indoor humidity often sits well below the 40 to 60 percent range most houseplants prefer. In winter, that number can drop to 20 percent or lower, but even in August, air conditioning and natural dryness can quietly leave your plants struggling.
How to Spot Low Humidity Stress
Brown or curling leaf edges, especially on ferns or calatheas
Droopy or papery new growth
Soil that dries out quickly
Leaves yellowing or dropping despite proper watering and light
These symptoms can look like underwatering, but they’re often signs your plant is losing moisture faster than it can absorb it.
How to Help Without Overhauling Your Home
Group plants together to raise the humidity in their shared space
Use a pebble tray under the pot to create gentle moisture
Avoid placing plants near vents or fans that dry out the air
Wipe leaves regularly to remove dust and mimic the feel of moisture
Consider a small humidifier if you have multiple tropicals in one room
Mist lightly for a temporary refresh, but don’t rely on it as a full fix
Beyond Snake Plants and Pothos: Dry-Tolerant Plants to Consider
We all know the classics, but here are a few less-talked-about houseplants that handle Calgary’s dry air with grace:
Cast Iron Plant (Aspidistra elatior): Incredibly hardy and tolerant of low light and dry air
Lipstick Plant (Aeschynanthus): Trailing and tropical, but adaptable and bloom-capable indoors
Peperomia obtusifolia: Compact, moisture-holding leaves and easygoing nature
Dracaena marginata: Sculptural and slow-growing, with good tolerance for dryness
Parlor Palm (Chamaedorea elegans): Elegant, pet-safe, and surprisingly adaptable
Chinese Evergreen (Aglaonema): Colorful and resilient with a wide variety of leaf patterns
String of Hearts (Ceropegia woodii): Delicate but drought-tolerant, perfect for bright corners
It’s Not Just About Survival
When you understand Calgary’s climate, you can help your indoor plants do more than just hang on; they can thrive. A few small adjustments to your care routine can make a big difference in how your home feels and how your plants grow.
Need help choosing the right plants for your space?
Come visit us in the studio or send us a photo; we’re happy to help.
