The growth of interior plants and the length of time they remain attractive depend on the amount of light they receive in relation to how much light they need. Light is necessary for all plants because they use this energy source to manufacture food.
Inside, we often must supplement light by using incandescent or fluorescent lights or by placing the plants near a window. Some interior plants, especially ones that have been indoors for a long time, cannot tolerate extended periods of direct sunlight. For this reason, it is best to locate interior plants in or near win dows that get direct sunlight for only short periods of time. Do not, however, put plants in dark corners. Indirect light is best for most interior plants.
Flowering plants such as gloxinias, geraniums, and begonias prefer bright,in direct light. Place them in areas that will receive this light level. East facing win dows are good for these plants.
Excessive light can be as damaging as too little light. When a plant gets too much direct light, the leaves may become pale, sunburn, turn brown, and die. Therefore, during the summer months, protect plants from too much direct sun light.
Remember, also, that the sun is lower in the sky during the winter. Tender plants such as ferns may sunburn during the winter months. With the sun lower in the sky, many windows will receive more hours of direct sunlight during the winter months.