Best Potted Plants for Covered Patios: romain-jaubert

The beauty of a covered patio is that it allows us to enjoy the outdoors even when the weather isn't cooperating. But what good is a patio without some greenery to liven it up? Potted plants are the perfect solution, and with a little bit of know-how, you can transform your covered patio into a lush, inviting oasis. Let's explore the best potted plants for your covered patio, along with some tips on how to choose and care for them.

Your covered patio likely receives plenty of indirect light, making it an ideal location for a variety of plants. However, it's still essential to consider the specific light levels and humidity, as these factors can vary. In this guide, we'll discuss two primary groups of plants that thrive in covered patios: humidity-loving plants and those that prefer less water.

Humidity-Loving Potted Plants

Covered patios often provide a more humid environment due to their enclosure, making them perfect for plants that hail from tropical climates. Here are some of the best humidity-loving potted plants for your covered patio:

Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata)

The Boston fern is an elegant, arching fern that thrives in humid conditions. Its delicate, lacy fronds add a touch of softness to any patio setting. Ensure it has high humidity and evenly moist, well-draining soil to keep it happy.

To dial up the humidity, consider placing the pot on a tray filled with pebbles and water. Ensure the pot isn't sitting in water to prevent root rot. Misting the fern regularly will also help to maintain the required humidity levels.

Pelea Rubra (Peperomia cladophila)

Pelea Rubra, also known as the radiator plant, is a stunning, succulent-like plant with striking, intricate foliage. It loves high humidity and indirect light. Keep the soil evenly moist but allow it to dry out between waterings to prevent overwatering.

Moreover, its compact size makes it an excellent choice for small patios or as a tabletop plant. To create a bold, dynamic look, group several plants together in complementary pots.

Potted Plants That Prefer Less Water

If your covered patio has lower humidity or more direct sunlight, consider these moisture-loving, yet water-wise plants:

Snake Plant (Sansevieria)

The Snake Plant, or Mother-in-Law's Tongue, is a hardy, upright plant with striking, sword-like leaves. It tolerates low humidity and requires very little water, making it an excellent choice for covered patios with less moisture in the air.

Available in various sizes and patterns, Snake Plants add a modern, architectural element to your patio decor. They also thrive in low light conditions, making them perfect for patios that don't receive too much sunlight.

ZZ Plant (Zamioculcas zamiifolia)

The ZZ Plant, or Zanzibar Gem, is a stunning, glossy-leaved plant that's incredibly drought-tolerant. It loves bright, indirect light but can tolerate low light conditions. Water only when the soil is completely dry, making it an excellent choice for busy individuals or those who tend to forget regular watering.

The ZZ Plant's unique appearance makes it a statement piece on any patio. Its glossy, dark green foliage and upright growth habit add elegance and sophistication to your outdoor space. Group several plants together in matching pots for a cohesive, bold look.

Remember, when selecting plants for your covered patio, consider the patio's specific light levels and humidity. Group plants together based on their care needs to make maintenance easier and ensure the health of your plants. With the right choices and a little care, your covered patio will be a beautiful, inviting oasis that you'll enjoy all year round. Happy planting!